Best Management Practices for South Florida Urban Stormwater ...

Best Management Practices for South Florida Urban Stormwater

Management Systems

April 2002South Florida Water Management District

3301 Gun Club RoadWest Palm Beach, FL 33306

(561) 686-8800www.sfwmd.gov

TECHNICAL PUBLICATION REG-004

BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR

SOUTH FLORIDA URBAN STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

by

Vincent F. Peluso, P.E. Ana Marshall

April 2002

Technical Editor Kimberly Jacobs

Special Acknowledgements: Paul McGinnes, Ph.D., P.E.

Damon Meiers, P.E. Carlos Adorisio, P.E.

Julia Lacy, P.E. William Donovan, Ph.D.

Barbara Powell Margaret McPherson

Angela Farinelli

Everglades Stormwater Program South Florida Water Management District

West Palm Beach, Florida

www.sfwmd.gov

Stormwater BMPs Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Introduction ................................................................................................................1

II. Overview: Stormwater Management in Urban Areas ................................................1

III. Sources of Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff...................................................3

IV. Constituents of Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff ...........................................4

V. Methods of Quantifying Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff .............................7

VI. Feasibility Screening for Urban BMP Selection ......................................................10

VII. Nonstructural BMP Options.....................................................................................18

VIII. Structural BMP Options ...........................................................................................23

IX. Opportunities for BMP Implementation ..................................................................28

X. Conclusions ..............................................................................................................31

XI. References ................................................................................................................31

Appendix A. Typical Costs Associated with Structural BMPs ...................................... A-1

Appendix B. Turf and Landscaping Best Management Practices ...................................B-1

Appendix C. Structural BMP Fact Sheets .......................................................................C-1

i

Stormwater BMPs Introduction

I. INTRODUCTIONThe South Florida Water Management District (District) has prepared this

document to increase public awareness about the management of urban stormwater runoffand how best management practices (BMPs) can be used to improve water quality. Thedocument provides a general overview of stormwater runoff, the sources affecting waterquality, and what can be done to improve the quality of stormwater discharges. Thisdocument serves as an important educational tool designed to describe the variousopportunities for improving water quality in urban areas of South Florida.

II. OVERVIEW: STORMWATER MANAGEMENT IN URBAN AREAS

Background

Rapid urbanization impacts natural flowways and affects water quality andquantity. As an area develops, undisturbed pervious surfaces become impervious due tothe construction of parking lots, buildings, homes, streets, and other structures. Thisincrease in impervious surfaces results in increased stormwater runoff, which is the waterthat flows over the land during and immediately after storm events. The increase instormwater runoff disrupts the natural balance of physical, chemical, and biologicalprocesses. It causes pollution in natural systems and results in soil erosion that createsdamage downstream. It reduces the infiltration of water into the ground. In addition, theincrease in runoff discharging through existing drainage systems may cause flooding.

In the past, conveying water off-site in the shortest time possible was a standardmeasure for flood protection. Today, more emphasis is being placed on the environmentalimpacts and effects of drainage systems and urbanization in general. Communities haveimplemented management practices for the development and redevelopment of projects toensure that peak stormwater discharge rates, volumes, and pollution loads leaving a siteare minimized without compromising flood protection. This can be achieved throughstormwater management plans that provide for surface water drainage, flood protection,erosion and sediment control, aesthetic enhancement, recreational opportunities, reuse ofwater resources, and the reduction of pollutants through BMPs.

Nonpoint Source Pollution

Much of the pollution in waterways is caused by “nonpoint source” pollution asopposed to “point source” pollution. Point source pollution, such as discharges fromfactories or other industrial facilities that discharge wastewater, is typically thought of ascausing surface water pollution. Due to more stringent regulation of these point sources ofpollution, their contribution to water pollution has greatly diminished. Now, nonpointsources of pollution can sometimes contribute more pollution in comparison to pointsource pollution.

1

Overview: Stormwater Management in Urban Areas Stormwater BMPs

Nonpoint source pollution is described as stormwater pollution that results fromthe accumulation of contaminants from land surface, erosion of soils, debris, increasedvolumes of stormwater runoff, atmospheric deposition, suspended sediments, dissolvedcontaminants, and other anthropomorphic contaminants. It is sometimes difficult todifferentiate between a nonpoint source and a collection of many smaller point sources.

Stormwater Best Management Practices

A stormwater BMP is a method or combination of methods found to be the mosteffective and feasible means of preventing or reducing the amount of pollution generatedby nonpoint sources to a level compatible with water quality goals. Problem assessment,including technological, economic, and institutional considerations; examination ofalternative practices; and appropriate public participation, are all considered beforeimplementing BMP solutions. The following three principles apply in the improvement ofwater quality through BMPs:

• Prevention…...Avoiding the generation of pollutants• Reduction……Reducing or redirecting pollutants• Treatment……Capturing and treating pollutants

Methods for controlling pollutants in stormwater runoff can be categorized asnonstructural or structural practices. The two methods are often used together to controlrunoff in new developments, existing developments, and construction sites.

Nonstructural BMPs

Nonstructural BMPs are practices that improve water quality by reducing theaccumulation and generation of potential pollutants at or near their source. They do notrequire construction of a facility, but instead provide for the development of pollutioncontrol programs that include prevention, education, and regulation. These can beclassified as follows:

• Planning and regulatory tools• Conservation, recycling and source controls• Maintenance and operational procedures• Educational and outreach programs

Structural BMPs

Structural BMPs involve building an engineered “facility” for controlling quantityand quality of urban runoff. These structures treat runoff at either the point of generationor the point of discharge to either the storm sewer system or receiving waters. Mostrequire some level of routine maintenance. Structural BMPs can be categorized asretention systems, detention systems, or other systems.

2

Stormwater BMPs Sources of Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff

Although the basic principles of managing stormwater remain the same, theyshould be uniquely adapted to the special requirements of each project. It should beunderstood that no one BMP can be the “cure all” for a particular project, but if several areused together in a linked fashion like cars in a train (a “BMP treatment train”), adverseeffects of urban stormwater runoff can be reduced or alleviated.

A careful assessment of stormwater management conditions should be madebefore choosing a system of comprehensive BMPs. First, potential pollutant sources andhigh risk areas of pollution must be identified. Then, the magnitude of the problem mustbe evaluated by monitoring and analyzing runoff to determine the amount and type ofpollutants in terms of concentration or load. Understanding the source, amount, andcharacteristics of pollutants in stormwater runoff is essential in applying a screeningprocess for selecting appropriate BMPs. Additional stormwater management resourcescan be found at the District's web site: http://www.sfwmd.gov.

III. SOURCES OF POLLUTANTS IN URBAN STORMWATER RUNOFFCommon pollutants found in stormwater runoff come from the following major

sources:

• Construction Activities: Although relatively short-term, soil erosionfrom exposed land during construction activities is a major source ofsuspended solids in stormwater runoff. While most of the pollutionconsists of turbidity from earthwork operations, hydrocarbons fromextensive use of large machinery and vehicles are also a major concern.Due to the proliferation of construction activities at any given time, theimplementation of short-term pollution prevention measures and BMPsis critical.

• Agricultural Activities: These operations, which include farming andnursery activities, as well as equestrian communities, are a majorsource of pollutants in the form of fertilizer, animal waste, and soilerosion from exposed areas.

• Street Pavement: As roads degrade, surface components becomecommon constituents of urban runoff. The largest is the aggregatematerial itself. Also, smaller quantities of contaminants originate fromthe asphalt binder, fillers, and substances applied to the surface by dailytraffic.

• Motor Vehicles: Vehicle use creates pollutants such as fuel, lubricants,tire particles, brake linings, dust, exhaust emissions, asbestos, andheavy metals that collect on roads and in parking lots. Otherconstituents, such as organics, nutrients, and suspended solids, canadhere to vehicle surfaces and then be washed onto roads by rain andsplashing.

3

http://www.sfwmd.gov

Constituents of Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff Stormwater BMPs

• Atmospheric Deposition: Atmospheric contaminants such as dust andparticles from industrial processes, and dust emissions from planes,cars, and exposed land fall on the ground and become mobile in runoffduring a storm event.

• Vegetation: Organic matter such as leaves, grass, and other plantmaterials fall or are placed in areas where they can be carried away bystormwater runoff. They can become a large contributor of organic andnutrient pollutants.

• Land Surface: The type of land cover and amount of vehicular andpedestrian traffic in a particular area have a direct impact on the amountand type of runoff generated.

• Litter: Various kinds of litter, such as food containers, packagingmaterials, and landscape vegetation, can float in runoff and preventstructural controls from operating properly. In addition, animaldroppings have been shown to be a contributor of nutrient and bacterialcontamination.

• Chemicals: Chemicals, such as fertilizers, insecticides, and herbicidesused on agricultural fields, roadside areas, and yards, contaminatesurface and ground waters.

• Wastewater: Contamination from wastewater may occur if septictanks or sanitary sewer systems overflow during local flooding.Improper connections between sanitary sewers and stormwaterdrainage systems may result in discharge of laundry or sanitary wasteto drainage canals.

IV. CONSTITUENTS OF POLLUTANTS IN URBAN STORMWATER RUNOFFThis section describes common pollutants found in urban stormwater runoff. Each

pollutant has a specific adverse impact on the health of our waterways and environment. Asummary of pollutants, sources, and their impacts is provided at the end of this section inTable 1.

Sediments

Sediments are solid materials originating mostly from disintegrating rock, erodingsoil, and/or accumulated organic material deposited on the land surface. Suspendedsediments contribute the largest mass of pollutants to surface waters and cause both short-and long-term impacts. Sediments clog waterways, smother bottom living aquaticorganisms, and increase turbidity. These conditions are monitored by measuring settleablesolids, total suspended solids, and turbidity.

4

Stormwater BMPs Constituents of Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff

Immediate adverse impacts include increased turbidity, reduced light penetrationwith decreased submerged aquatic vegetation (Chesapeake Bay Local GovernmentAdvisory Committee, 1988), and reduced prey capture for sight-feeding predators. Also,fish and aquatic invertebrate respiration is impaired, and reduced reproduction results in adecline of commercial and recreational fishing resources. Heavy sediment deposition inlow-velocity surface water may result in smothered benthic communities/reef systems(Buck, 1991), increased sedimentation of waterways, changes in the composition ofbottom substrate, and degradation of aesthetic value.

Chronic effects may occur where sediments rich in organic matter or clay arepresent. These enriched depositional sediments may present a continued risk to aquaticand benthic life, especially where the sediments are disturbed and resuspended.

Nutrients

Nitrogen and phosphorous are the principal nutrients of concern in urbanstormwater. In excess, they increase primary biological productivity and may causeunwanted and uncontrolled growth of algae and undesirable aquatic weeds. Surface algalscum, water discoloration, and the release of toxins from sediment may also occur. Themajor sources of nutrients in stormwater are urban landscape runoff (fertilizers,detergents, and plant debris), atmospheric deposition, and improperly functioning septictanks (Terrene Institute and USEPA, 1996).

Heavy Metals

Heavy metals originate from the operation of motor vehicles, direct fallout,industry, and degradation of highway materials. The most abundant heavy metals typicallyfound in urban runoff are lead, cadmium, chromium, copper, mercury, and zinc. Lead,zinc, and copper account for approximately 90 percent of dissolved heavy metals (Harper,1985). Except for copper and cadmium, the majority of metals are present in particulateform. These substances disrupt the reproduction of fish and shellfish. In addition, heavymetals accumulate in fish tissue, posing a threat to humans. Another human andenvironmental threat is the potential for ground water contamination.

Oxygen Demanding Substances

Numerous organic materials are decomposed by microorganisms, thereby creatinga need for oxygen. Oxygen consumption during this process results in an oxygen deficitthat can kill fish and other aquatic life forms. Data have shown that urban runoff with highconcentrations of decaying organic matter can severely depress dissolved oxygen levelsafter storm events (USEPA, 1983). Proper levels of dissolved oxygen are critical tomaintaining water quality and aquatic life. Oxygen demanding substances found in urbanstormwater can be measured through biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygendemand, and total organic carbon.

5

Constituents of Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff Stormwater BMPs

Petroleum Hydrocarbons

Petroleum hydrocarbons are derived from oil products. They include oil andgrease, the compounds benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, and xylene, and a variety ofpolynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. Some petroleum hydrocarbons are known to be toxicto aquatic life at low concentrations. Hydrocarbons have a high affinity for sediment, andthey collect in bottom sediments where they may persist for long periods of time andresult in adverse impacts on benthic communities. The source of most such pollutantsfound in urban runoff is parking lots and roadways, leaking storage tanks, vehicleemissions, and improper disposal of waste oil.

Pathogens

Urban runoff typically contains elevated levels of pathogenic organisms such ascoliform bacteria and viruses. Pathogens contaminate surface and ground waterpreventing swimming in water bodies, drinking from certain water sources, and harvestingof fish. This problem may be especially prevalent in areas with porous or sandy soils. TheTerrene Institute and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) (1996)reported that the primary sources of pathogens in urban runoff are animal wastes(including pets and birds), failing septic systems, illicit sewage connections, and boats andmarinas.

Toxics

Many different toxic compounds (priority pollutants) have been associated withurban runoff. National urban runoff pollutant studies indicated that at least 10 percent ofurban runoff samples contained toxic pollutants (USEPA, 1983). Synthetic organiccompounds that are toxic include a variety of manufactured compounds coveringpesticides, solvents, and household and industrial chemicals.

In sufficiently high concentrations, detergents and similar synthetic organicsurfactants can interfere with the respiration of fish and other aquatic animals. Thepresence of detergents indicates there are either improper discharges into the stormwatercollection system or that wastewater is entering through overflowing sanitary sewers orseptic tanks. Detergents also indicate that loads of nutrients in stormwater may besignificant as water conditioning chemicals are generally phosphate-based.

Others

Impacts not related to specific pollutants can also occur. These impacts can becaused by changes in the temperature or physical properties of the water. Changes in watertemperature affect some important physical properties and characteristics of water, such asspecific conductivity and conductance, salinity, and the solubility of dissolved gases.Water holds less oxygen as it becomes warmer resulting in less oxygen available forrespiration by aquatic organisms. Higher temperatures also increase the metabolism,respiration, and oxygen demand of fish and other aquatic life. Water temperature changes

6

Stormwater BMPs Methods of Quantifying Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff

can result from increased flows, the removal of vegetative cover, and increased amountsof impervious surfaces. Alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, hardness, and conductivity canalso affect the behavior of materials in water. Metals generally become more soluble as pHdrops below neutral and hence become more available to harm organisms (bioavailable).Depleted dissolved oxygen can also make some metals more soluble.

V. METHODS OF QUANTIFYING POLLUTANTS IN URBAN STORMWATER RUNOFFWater pollutants can be quantified in terms of concentration or load. Concentration

provides a method for comparing different storm events and relating one site with another.Loads are used to make relative comparisons of the same site and predict potential impactsand pollutant attenuation capabilities of various stormwater management practices.

Concentration

Concentration is the mass of pollutant per unit volume of water sample taken at aparticular point in time. It is a static test to measure pollutant content. The amount ofpollutant transported by runoff has been shown to vary considerably during each stormevent as well as from site to site. A given site may produce different pollutantconcentrations due to variability of rainfall intensity, frequency of the rain events, soiltypes, land uses, weather patterns, and intensity of watershed activities (Harper, 1999).Concentrations are usually expressed as milligrams per liter (mg/l).

Table 1. Pollutants in Stormwater Runoff

Pollutant Source Impact to Water BodySediments Eroding rock, soil, or organic material from

building sites, streets, and lawnsClogged waterways, increased turbidity, and reduction of bottom living organisms

Nutrients Nitrogen and phosphorous from landscape runoff, atmospheric deposition, and faulty septic tanks

Unwanted growth of algae and undesirable aquatic weeds, scum, and water discoloration

Heavy Metals Lead, cadmium, chromium, copper, mercury, and zinc from vehicles, highway materials, atmospheric deposition, and industry

Disruption of fish reproduction, fish toxicity, and potential for ground water contamination


Decaying organic matter Death of fish and aquatic life forms

Petroleum Hydrocarbons

Oil, grease, and various hydrocarbons from roads, parking lots, leaking storage tanks, and improper oil disposal

Toxicity to aquatic life and adverse impacts on benthic communities

Pathogens Coliform bacteria and viruses from animal waste, septic systems, sewer cross-connections, and boats and marinas

Contamination of swimming, fishing areas, or drinking water

Toxics Pesticides, solvents, and chemicals from lawns, gardens, and commercial and household activities

Interference with respiration of fish and aquatic life forms

Others Changes in the temperature or physical properties of water

Increased oxygen demand by fish and aquatic life forms and increased availability of toxic elements that harm organisms

7

Methods of Quantifying Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff Stormwater BMPs

Because of the difficulty in characterizing pollutant concentrations during dynamicflow conditions, the accepted practice is to determine an event mean concentration. Thisvalue is found by analyzing a single sample composited from a series of samples taken atdifferent points in time throughout the runoff event and combined in proportion to theflow rate at the time of sampling, or by calculating the total pollutant mass dischargeddivided by the total discharge volume. Event mean concentration is generally accepted asthe primary estimation of a characteristic pollutant concentration for individual stormevents. This provides a method for comparing different storm events and relating one sitewith another. A good deal of research has been conducted showing the link between landuse and water quality. Table 2 shows national data for median event mean concentrationsby land use category.

The interrelationships of rainfall runoff and soil erosion processes are dynamic andcomplex. Through research and a sound understanding of hydrologic processes, simpleassumptions can be made to produce reasonable and practical runoff and soil erosionestimates. Figure 1 shows typical pollutant concentrations in stormwater runoffthroughout a storm event. Most pollutants are flushed at the beginning of a storm event.Runoff then accumulates slowly and peaks over time.

Table 2. Median Event Mean Concentrations by Land Use Categorya

a. Source: USEPA, 1983

Pollutant Units Residential Mixed CommercialOpen/

NonurbanSoluble Phosphorus �g/lb

b. �g/l - micrograms per liter

143 56 80 26Total Phosphorus �g/l 383 263 201 121Nitrate-Nitrite �g/l 736 558 572 543Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen �g/l 1,900 1,288 1,179 965Total Nitrogen �g/l 2,636 1,846 1,751 1,508Biochemical Oxygen Demand mg/l 10.0 7.8 9.3 --Chemical Oxygen Demand mg/l 73 65 57 40Total Suspended Solids mg/l 101 67 69 70Total Copper �g/l 33 27 29 --Total Lead �g/l 144 114 104 30Total Zinc �g/l 135 154 226 195

8

Stormwater BMPs Methods of Quantifying Pollutants in Urban Stormwater Runoff

Load

Load is the mass of pollutant delivered to a receiving water body during a periodof time. It associates concentrations of a pollutant to a volume of runoff at a given specificflow duration. Loads are usually expressed on an annual basis as kilograms per year, andare used to make relative comparisons of the same site.

Evaluating pollutant loads on a mass basis provides further insight of potentialimpacts than might be obtained from evaluating concentration data only. Knowledge ofmass loading rates also provides an understanding of pollutant attenuation capabilities ofvarious stormwater management practices. Estimating cumulative (usually annual)pollutant loads for a watershed can be achieved by using the following types of data:

• Published yield values• Simple empirical models• Published regression equations• Computations from site-specific or modeled flow data and either local

or published concentrations• Computer generated, mechanistic models

Many studies have documented a general order of loading from urban land uses.This order, from highest to lowest, is as follows, industrial and commercial, freeway,higher density residential, lower density residential, and open land. However, constructionphases can produce far higher loads of solids and pollutants in soil, like phosphorous, thanin any finished land use.

Amountof

Pollutants

Rateof

DischargePollutantConcentration

Runoff

Time

Figure 1. Pollutant Concentration during a Storm Event

9

Feasibility Screening for Urban BMP Selection Stormwater BMPs

VI. FEASIBILITY SCREENING FOR URBAN BMP SELECTIONSelecting appropriate BMPs is an intricate process requiring thorough study and

research. Success will ultimately depend on choosing feasible options that specificallyaddress project conditions and objectives. A comprehensive management program shouldinclude a combination of structural and nonstructural components that are properlyselected, designed, implemented, inspected, and regularly maintained. Whetherimplementing BMPs to meet regulatory requirements, address water quality issues in awatershed, or attack acute local pollution problems, the project should be evaluated for thefollowing factors through a feasibility screening process:

• Physical and technical limitations• Pollutant reduction capabilities• Cost considerations • Supplemental benefits/side effects• Public acceptance

Physical and Technical Limitations

Watershed Area. The size of the area generating and/or contributing tostormwater runoff must be considered. Dry retention, exfiltration, concrete grid pavers,and filter BMPs generally are more suitable for smaller areas. Pond BMPs typicallyrequire a larger drainage area to assure proper operation.

Area Required for the BMP Option. Many BMPs are land intensive so adequatearea must be available at the site for construction. Underground installations of certainBMPs can be costly maintenance items.

Pollutant Type and Loading. Most BMPs are effective at removing particulate-related pollutants. Some BMPs, primarily those with vegetative components, can alsoreduce dissolved constituents. Many are susceptible to clogging. Pretreatment canincrease effectiveness, reduce maintenance, and extend the life of BMPs.

Soil Type. The permeability of soil has a direct influence on effectiveness,especially for retention practices. Soils such as silt and clay can influence the settlingcapabilities of BMPs.

Slope and Flow Characteristics. Water ponding or flow velocities may causeinstability or erosion of sediment, which will eliminate some BMP options.

Water Table Elevation. For retention and dry detention systems, effectivenessand maintenance costs can be related to how close the bottom of the BMP is to the watertable.

Bedrock or Hardpan. Restrictive soil layers or rock can impede downwardinfiltration of runoff or make excavation for ponds impossible or expensive.

10

Stormwater BMPs Feasibility Screening for Urban BMP Selection

Location. BMPs should not be located close to building foundations, septic tanks,or drinking wells. Seepage problems or ground water pollution can result from retentionBMPs.

Receiving Waters. Receiving waters such as lagoons and estuaries wouldgenerally benefit from reductions in total volumes of runoff. However, normal timing andflow volumes into saline habitats must be considered as an appropriate freshwater-saltwater mix is needed to support these environments.

Figure 2 shows a generalized diagram to assist in determining potential BMPoptions to remove pollutants under specified site conditions. Special conditions maydictate the selection of alternative BMP options. For example, in an area with a high watertable, an extended detention basin may not be feasible because basin excavation would berequired.

Pollutant Reduction Capabilities

Interrelated factors generally govern pollutant removal capabilities achieved byBMPs. These factors include removal mechanisms in operation, type of contaminant to beremoved, characteristics of the annual runoff volume directed to treatment, and BMPefficiency factors.

Removal Mechanisms

Removal of pollutants in stormwater can occur through sedimentation, flotation,filtration, infiltration, adsorption, biological uptake, biological conversion, anddegradation. Most removal processes affect both particulate and dissolved forms ofpollutants. Some removal mechanisms are more effective than others for specificpollutants.

Type of Contaminant to be Removed

Sediments

Settling is the most effective removal method for suspended solids. Settleability ofa pollutant depends directly on particle size and density. Some suspended particles maynot be settleable without the help of a coagulating agent. In describing settlingcharacteristics of suspended solids, the following factors are of significance:

• Loading• Percent settleable• Particle size distribution• Particle settling velocities• Density of settleable pollutant• pH of the water• Heavy metal content of the water

11


Is SoilWell Drained?

START

WaterTable

Shallow?

DrainageArea Moderate

or Large?

AreNutrientsan Issue?

DRY DETENTION POND*

WET DETENTION POND

CONSTRUCTED WETLAND

(Combined with any of the above BMPs)

VEGETATED FILTER STRIP**

DRY RETENTION BASIN

EXFILTRATION TRENCH

Yes

SOIL TYPES BASED ON SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE CLASSIFICATIONA: Sand, Loamy SandB: Sandy Loam, LoamC: Silt Loam, Sand, Clay LoamD: Clay Loam, Silty Clay Loam, Sandy Clay, Silty Clay, Clay

* Option may not be feasible if excavation is required in areas with high water tables.** Options can only be used when slopes along the flow path are moderately low.

Adapted from Camp et al., 1993

A or B soil onlyA, B, C, or D soil

NoNo

No

Yes Bedrock/

CONCRETE GRID PAVERS

Yes

GRASSED SWALES or

WATER QUALITY INLETS orSEPARATION DEVICES

CHEMICAL TREATMENT

VEGETATED FILTER STRIP**GRASSED SWALES or

(Combined with any of the above BMPs)

WATER QUALITY INLETS orSEPARATION DEVICES

Figure 2. BMP Options for Specified Site Conditions

12


Based on a distribution of particle settling velocities from an urban runoff studyconducted by the USEPA in 1986, approximately 20 percent of solids exhibit settlingvelocities less than 10–3 centimeters per second (cm/s), corresponding roughly to particlesizes less than 10 microns. Under ideal conditions, a particle settling at a 10-3 cm/s willtravel approximately 5.7 feet in 48 hours and should be effectively removed from a watercolumn of this approximate depth over a period of 48 hours. Particle sizes less than 10microns, generally considered to be in the colloidal or clay range, cannot be effectivelyremoved by settling (Harper, 1999).

Other studies associated with total suspended solids, chemical oxygen demand,total phosphorus, and lead that were conducted under laboratory conditions by Randall etal. (1982) indicate that settling processes for these pollutants appear to be virtuallycomplete after 24 to 48 hours. Another study found that removal of dissolved ions bysedimentation was generally poor (Harper, 1999).

Nutrients

Nutrients may be in either dissolved or particulate form. Approximately 60 percentare present in particulate form. Removal of dissolved pollutants is generally optimizedthrough biologically-mediated processes in systems that maintain permanent pools, havediverse flora and fauna, and are well oxygenated. The design of BMPs for removingnutrients should include provisions for settling nutrients in particulate form and also anutrient assimilation component for dissolved forms, such as littoral zones within adetention system. Swale conveyance, sediment sumps, or a perimeter swale and bermsystem are also effective in reducing particulate nutrients. More specifically, phosphorouscan be controlled by high soil exchangeable aluminum and/or ion content and by theaddition of precipitating agents. Nitrogen can be controlled by alternating aerobic andanaerobic conditions, low toxicants, and neutral pH.

Heavy Metals

Dissolved heavy metals are removed from runoff primarily by physical andchemical processes (Harper, 1999). Processes include chemical precipitation, adsorption,sorption and coprecipitation, and complexation followed by coagulation and flocculation.

To maximize removal of heavy metals in detention BMPs, flow velocities shouldbe gradually reduced and flow length from inlet to discharge point should be maximized topromote settling. Suitable vegetation should be planted to promote removal of dissolvedmetals. To remain aerobic and keep metals bound to sediments, it is important to keep thepH of the water around 7 so that metal-sediment associations are inert with minortendencies for release into the water column. In addition, a high organic soil content withhigh soil cation exchange capacity is effective in treating metals.


Removal of oxygen demanding wastes occurs through oxidation of organic matterby aerobic bacteria and fungi. This process is generally complete in 3 to 5 days (Harper,

13


1998). To effectively reduce this pollutant, systems must provide adequate supplies ofoxygen and sufficient detention time for decomposition processes to occur. This can beaccomplished with BMPs having shallow water depths (less than 10 to 15 feet), having ahigh length to width ratio so as to include wind mixing, or using artificial aerators.

Oils, Greases, and Hydrocarbons

These pollutants are removed primarily by physical and chemical processes. Lowboiling hydrocarbons often float on the water surface and can be removed by vaporization.Greases generally accumulate into the sediments where they may undergo gradualmicrobial decomposition. Many pesticides are insoluble in water and readily adsorb ontosoil particles. Oils and greases can be retained in BMPs utilizing skimmers at thedischarge structure. Many drop-in filtration systems incorporate an oil and grease orhydrocarbon trap with a submerged outlet pipe that allows these contaminants toaccumulate and be periodically removed.

Pathogens

Pathogens die off naturally, but the process can be promoted by plant excretions.Removal mechanisms include coagulation, predation by zooplankton, and adsorption ontosuspended matter and sediments.

Characteristics of the Annual Runoff Volume Directed to Treatment

Rainfall characteristics such as average rainfall frequency, duration, and intensitymust be reviewed before designing a BMP. These will directly affect the volume of waterthat needs to be detained, retained, or reused; the time needed to recover the treatmentvolume; and the process used to capture, filter, or assimilate pollutants. Pollutant controlmethods generally rely on capturing and treating runoff from small, frequent events thatcarry the majority of pollutants and the first flush of larger rainfall events (Figure 1). Forexample, in Florida, nearly 90 percent of a year’s storm events produce one inch of rainfallor less and 75 percent of the total volume of rain falls in storms of one inch or less(Wanielista, 1977). In general, BMPs should be designed to provide treatment control forthe smaller rain events rather than for extreme events.

Time is also a factor to consider in designing pollutant removal BMPs. Increasingthe hydraulic residence time and promoting low turbulence will help achieve anyobjective in treating stormwater. The effectiveness of settling a solid particle is directlyrelated to the time provided for sedimentation and determines the degree to whichchemical and biological processes can occur. Water residence time is the most basicvariable to apply effective treatment practice technology.

While specific structural design specifications and criteria for BMPs are not withinthe scope of this document, several publications are available to assist with BMP design.Table A-1, Appendix A provides information related to each BMP type.

14


Treatment Efficiency Factors

A goal of 80 percent annual reduction of stormwater pollutant loadings bystormwater management systems can be best achieved through a multilevel strategy that1) prevents pollutants from entering the system, 2) considers operational and maintenancechanges, 3) applies source controls and then treatment controls, and 4) administerscommunitywide prevention controls, where required.

Different BMPs have different effectiveness on different pollutants as shown inFigure 3. Removal efficiencies will vary based on the incoming concentrations ofpollutants. High removal rates may be seen at higher initial concentrations, but whenlower initial contaminant levels are put into the system it may be less effective and thepercentage removal may be lower. Each control measure should provide sufficientpollutant control to warrant its inclusion. An average annual pollutant removal efficiencycan be calculated based on the annual mass of pollutants introduced and the annual massremoved.

Urban runoff treatment systems are designed to capture and retain pollutants,especially solids. The accumulation of these materials can seriously impair the operationof a system and greatly reduce its effectiveness, resulting in pollutant discharge andpossibly increased flooding. When selecting a BMP, appropriate operation, maintenance,and management considerations must be included in the decisionmaking process. Inaddition, responsibility for such items should be clearly assigned for the life of the system.See Appendix A, Table A-1, for more information related to each BMP type.

Cost Considerations

Construction of a proposed BMP in a selected location should require reasonableeffort and expense. Required materials must be available and construction techniquesfeasible. The cost of BMP implementation should not exceed expected pollution controlbenefits, and the funding assessment should cover all stages of the BMP life. Whencomputing implementation costs, the following factors should be evaluated during theselection process:

• Design and permitting costs• Capital costs• Operation, inspection, and maintenance costs• Unit costs of pollutant removal

Design and permitting costs are generally estimated to be 25 to 35 percent of thebase construction cost, depending on the geographic area and the experience of thedesigner (USEPA, 1999). Capital costs for installation and construction of structuralBMPs vary nationwide depending on land costs, weather patterns, construction methods,and site specific conditions. Representative cost data for BMP installation or construction,operation, inspection, and maintenance have been summarized in Appendix A. Theinformation was gathered from nationwide databases and should be used only as a

15


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First-flush runoff volume detained for 6 to 12 hoursDesign 8

Exfiltration Trench

HighDesign 3

HighDesign 2

ModerateDesign 1

Moderate Constructed Wetland

Grassed Swale

LowDesign 7

LowDesign 6

Concrete Grid Pavers

HighDesign 3

HighDesign 2

ModerateDesign 1

Dry Retention Basin

HighDesign 3

ModerateDesign 1

HighDesign 2

Vegetated Filter Strip

ModerateDesign 5

LowDesign 4

Dry Detention Pond

Design 9 Moderate

Design 10 High

Design 8 Moderate

Wet Detention Pond

Design 13 High

Design 12 Moderate

Design 11 Moderate

LowDesign 14Water Quality Inlet

0 to 20% Removal

20 to 40% Removal

40 to 60% Removal

60 to 80% Removal

80 to100% Removal

Insufficient Knowledge

Key

Runoff volume produced by 1.0 inch, detained 24 hoursDesign 9As in Design 9, but with shallow marsh in bottom stageDesign 10Permanent pool equal to 0.5-inch storage per impervious acreDesign 11Permanent pool equal to 2.5 (Vr) ; where Vr = mean storm runoffDesign 12Permanent pool equal to 4.0 (Vr) ; approximately 2 weeks retentionDesign 13

Facility exfiltrates first-flush runoff; 0.5-inch runoff per impervious acreDesign 1Facility exfiltrates 1-inch runoff volume per impervious acreDesign 2Facility exfiltrates all runoff, up to the 2-year design stormDesign 3

400-cubic feet wet storage per impervious acreDesign 14

20-foot wide turf stripDesign 4100-foot wide forested strip with level spreaderDesign 5High slope swales with no check damsDesign 6Low gradient swales with check damsDesign 7

Figure 3. Pollutant Removal Effectiveness of Different BMPs

16


guideline. Since operation, inspection, and maintenance are crucial elements inmaintaining BMP design integrity, a relative cost of these elements estimated as a percentof the capital cost has been included in Appendix A.

One way to design cost-effective BMPs is to relate basin volume to cost. Although,for most detention BMPs, a critical point occurs where little increase in percent runoffcaptured occurs with increase in basin volume.

Effects on stormwater quality from nonstructural BMPs are difficult to quantifyand measure accurately without long-term data. Therefore, cost avoidance resulting fromgood management practices cannot be easily determined. In cases of recycling, thematerials collected can serve as an indirect measure of overall success of the project. Forwater conservation measures, projected values can be compared to actual usage data toevaluate the program.

Supplemental Benefits and Side Effects

Both supplemental benefits and side effects can result from implementing BMPsand need to be considered when determining the appropriateness of a BMP. Supplementalbenefits include opportunities for wildlife use, passive recreation, and water conservation.Side effects include the potential for mosquito breeding, downstream temperaturechanges, reduced base flows, and ground water contamination.

Public Acceptance

The more publicly accepted the BMP, the better chance it has for success. This iscrucial when referring to nonstructural BMPs where a change in cultural practices isnecessary. Structural BMPs require that the owner/operator be comfortable with projectrequirements before construction begins. A structural BMP will not perform as designed ifit is not maintained properly. Therefore, a long-term commitment is needed.

Community involvement should be promoted to support pollution controlinitiatives. Active participation can be encouraged by defining problems clearly andoutlining measures to solve them. A BMP program should incorporate the followingguidelines:

• Reflect the characteristics of the community

• Acknowledge community priorities

• Heighten awareness about the program/problem

• Provide clear, concise information

• Explain what each individual must do

• Give the individual an easy way to do the task• Monitor the program and gain feedback

17

Nonstructural BMP Options Stormwater BMPs

VII. NONSTRUCTURAL BMP OPTIONS Most nonstructural BMP options are applicable for use in residential, commercial,

industrial, agricultural, and nursery operations in newly developed or existing watersheds.They can be used to complement structural BMPs in developing areas, but may be theonly option in existing developments. These options are based on changes in humanpractices that result in the prevention or reduction of the generation of contaminants intostormwater runoff. Because they rely on actions and not structures, they must beimplemented consistently and repetitively over time. Any process for selectingnonstructural BMPs should take into consideration the incorporation of the followingelements: planning and regulatory tools; conservation, recycling, and source controls;maintenance and operational procedures; and educational and outreach programs.

Planning and Regulatory Tools

Action plans and regulations encourage or mandate management practices thatprevent, reduce, or treat stormwater runoff. For example, setbacks can be required fromwaterways, minimum allowable impervious areas within a site can be established, andcriteria for treating runoff can be mandated. Plans for stormwater runoff control should besubmitted to the appropriate agencies for review and approval. The planning process givesthe public an opportunity to participate in the decisionmaking process regardingstormwater quality for existing and future land uses within their area. Existing federal,state, local, and site specific requirements provide the basis for building regulatoryprograms.

Ordinances and Regulatory Programs

Federal agencies are tasked with establishing nationwide programs to addressstormwater pollution. The State of Florida has generally established regulations byadopting the appropriate Code of Federal Regulations title into the Florida Statutes and theFlorida Administrative Code. Water management districts function under these codes andrequire permits for the construction and operation of water management systems, waterusage, or water quality monitoring plans.

Local governments play an important role in establishing regulatory programs thatprovide opportunities to meet specific local objectives. Regulatory measures must complywith state and federal mandates and should address such issues as hazardous materialscodes, zoning, land development and land use regulations, water shortage andconservation policies, and controls on types of flow allowed to drain into sanitarymunicipal storm sewer systems. For a successful local program the following elementsshould be considered:

• Community/business composition• Land use patterns• Local practices• Community concerns• Institutional characteristics

18

Stormwater BMPs Nonstructural BMP Options

Ordinances are laws or rules issued by a local government under legal authoritygranted by statutes. They can include findings of fact, objectives or purposes, definitions,permitting requirements, variances, performance/design standards, and enforcementpolicies. For further information and samples of ordinances, refer to Chapter 8 of theFlorida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Development Manual - AGuide to Sound Land and Water Management (FDER, 1992).

Low Impact Development

In low impact development, stormwater is managed in small, cost-effectivelandscape features located on each land parcel rather than being conveyed to large, costly,pond facilities located at the bottom of drainage areas. The concept of source control isquite different from end of pipe treatment. Hydrologic functions such as filtration,frequency, and volume of discharges, and ground water recharge can be maintained byreducing impervious surfaces, functional grading, open channel sections, reuse of runoff,and using multifunctional landscape features such as rain gardens, swales, mulch, andconservation areas.

Conservation, Recycling, and Source Controls

Conservation Plan

All water users, including domestic, utility, commercial, agricultural, andrecreational, have an opportunity and responsibility to conserve water to reduce oreliminate the amount of water potentially requiring stormwater runoff treatment.Promotion of conservation practices is essential in all communities. A good waterconservation plan should include a framework for the following components:

• Appropriate lawn irrigation

• Adoption of Xeriscape® landscape ordinances

• Installation of ultra-low volume plumbing fixtures in new construction

• Adoption of conservation-oriented rate structures by utilities

• Implementation of leak detection programs by utilities withunaccounted for water loss greater than 10 percent

• Institution of public education programs for water conservation

Using Reclaimed Water

Recycling water involves treating and disinfecting wastewater and using thereclaimed water for new, beneficial uses such as the following:

• Landscape irrigation for parks, golf courses, highway medians, andresidential lawns

• Agricultural irrigation for crops, pasture lands, and nursery operations

19


• Ground water recharging either directly or through rapid infiltrationbasins

• Industrial cooling or in-manufacturing processes

• Creating or restoring wetlands

• Fire protection

• Separate toilet piping systems in industrial or commercial buildings

• Aesthetic enhancements for ponds, fountains, and landscape features

• Dust control for construction sites or unpaved road communities

Source Control Measures

These measures address disposal practices of contaminants on the typical urbanlandscape. They may reduce or eliminate pollutants deposited on land surfaces that mayeventually come in contact with stormwater and be transported to receiving waters. Waterquality benefits may be derived from addressing the following:

• Erosion and sediment control during construction• Collection and proper disposal of animal waste• Collection and proper disposal of solid waste• Proper disposal and composting of yard waste• Proper disposal and recycling of unused toxic waste materials• Proper storage, disposal, and recycling of unused automotive fluids and

prevention of fluid leaks• Modified use of chemicals such as fertilizer, pesticides, and herbicides• Safe storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous household products

Maintenance and Operational Procedures

Nonstructural maintenance and operational procedures can be used to prevent orreduce the need for more costly structural treatment controls. To ensure the properoperation of stormwater BMP systems, periodic maintenance tasks are required. Theefficiency of an entire system relies on the proper upkeep of all BMP components.Nonstructural maintenance operations may consist of turf and landscape management,street cleaning, catch basin cleaning, road maintenance, canal/ditch maintenance, andmodification of structural operations.

Turf and Landscape Management

Lawns and grasses planted for aesthetic and recreational use, surface stabilization,and erosion control require routine maintenance that includes irrigation, mowing,fertilization, targeted pest management, aeration, and/or dethatching. Mowing should beperformed at optimal times, such as when no significant rainfall events are predicted.

20

Stormwater BMPs Nonstructural BMP Options

Municipal “no dumping” ordinances should be enacted to prevent the disposal of cuttingsand clippings in or near drainage facilities. Composting is a good disposal alternative, andthe installation of a yard waste composting facility is a viable management tool. Turf andlandscape management procedures should be consistent with vegetation use, growingseason, and the amount of rainfall. See Appendix B, Turf and Landscaping BestManagement Practices, for specific turf and landscape management practices.

Street Cleaning

Routine street cleaning removes accumulated depositions of solids that mayotherwise be transported as contaminants in the first flush of stormwater. Efficiencydepends on sweeping frequency which appears to be more effective in areas with distinctwet and dry seasons. Sweeping should increase just before the rainy season. Mechanicalbroom sweepers, vacuum sweepers, and street flushers are typically used for cleaning andare very effective in removing larger particles (>50 microns) and associated pollutants(i.e., solids and heavy metals). Parked cars can be an obstacle to effective sweeping andparking regulations may be required. Costs for purchasing equipment and implementing aprogram can be significant.

Catch Basin Cleaning

Accumulated sediments should be removed from catch basins on a regular basis toprevent clogging. Basins should be cleaned before the sump is 40 percent full.Maintenance schedules should be targeted to those areas with the highest pollutantloading. Capital costs may be high, as communities with numerous basins will need toprocure mechanical cleaners such as eductors, vacuums, or bucket loaders.

Road Maintenance

Deteriorating roadway surfaces can contribute to contamination of stormwater.Potholes and worn pavement should be promptly repaired to reduce sediment loading.Minimizing the size of the impervious area is the most effective method to reducestormwater pollution from the roadway. Aggressive maintenance programs are more cost-effective than complete roadway replacements.

Canal/Ditch Maintenance

Ditches that carry heavy flow concentrations should be periodically checked forcollapsed or blocked flowways, or degradation of flowway lining materials. The channelbottom should be dredged if a buildup of sediment occurs. Illegally dumped items shouldbe removed to reduce possible pollutants and achieve aesthetic enhancement. “Nolittering” signs can be posted with a call-in number to report dumping in progress. Also, ifwater quality will not be compromised, the characteristics of the channel can be modifiedto improve hydraulics.

21


Modification of Structural Operations

Schedules for structural operations can be modified to optimize water qualityobjectives. Activities such as diverting low quality water away from critical habitat areas;increasing the detention times or reducing the discharge orifice size in existing ponds;storing water for future use during drought periods; recharging the ground water table; andmixing clean water with degraded water to enhance quality are all examples of modifyingoperations to achieve priorities. Successful operations will reduce risk, increase watersupply reliability, and enhance water quality.

Educational and Outreach Programs

Public education is a BMP that can be implemented to meet the individual needsand interests of each segment of the community. Outreach programs should be integratedinto a community's overall plan for stormwater management to educate employees, thepublic, and businesses about the importance of protecting stormwater from improperlyused, stored, and disposed pollutants. Often people are not aware of the cumulative effectsof pollution generating activities. Once a pollutant has been linked with a particularcommunity, support for a volunteer effort and public education campaign can be madethrough the local civic association.

Public and private funding partnerships may be needed to ensure participation andencourage development of information and infrastructure improvements. Publicinformation can be expensive to develop and distribute and must be periodically updatedand redistributed. A specific course of action must be defined and the associated cost toimplement a solution determined for each problem. The initiation of a well coordinated,comprehensive campaign will be more effective at reaching audiences than a series ofseparate actions that seem unrelated. Potential funding sources for education programsmight include such agencies as the local public works department, health department, parkauthority, forestry division, state department of natural resources, United StatesDepartment of Agriculture, and private conservation groups.

The public should be educated about the relationship they have with the watershedin the area where they live. Programs informing citizens of practices that reduce sources ofpotential pollutants in runoff will encourage them to become part of the solution. Theymust receive repeated messages about how their behavior affects the health of theirwatershed to encourage behavior modification. The effectiveness of a program can beassessed by estimating how many people will hear the message, change their behavior,and to what degree their behavior changes. A public education plan should consist ofseveral kinds of activities that may include the following:

• Public surveys to assess use of toxic materials, disposal practices, andoverall environmental awareness

• Frequent and consistent campaign messages using a mission statement,logo, and tag line

22

Stormwater BMPs Structural BMP Options

• Campaign products such as door hangers, pamphlets, guidebooks,signs, press releases, or classroom/library displays

• Public outreach activities such as having a field day where a local waterquality expert comes to a community to demonstrate ways of reducingpollution

• Neighborhood programs, such as the following:

- Identifying storm drains with stenciling to discouragedumping

- Distributing toxics checklist for meeting householdhazardous waste regulations

- Producing displays and exhibits for school programs

- Distributing free seedlings for erosion control

- Creating volunteer opportunities such as water qualitymonitoring

- Conducting awards ceremonies for specific neighborhoodprojects

VIII. STRUCTURAL BMP OPTIONSStructural BMP mechanisms for controlling stormwater runoff in developing areas

fall into two main categories: 1) retention systems and 2) detention systems. Samplediagrams of structural methods described under each category are shown in Appendix C,Structural BMP Fact Sheets. Other new technologies are also included.

Prior to the installation of structural BMPs, institutional ordinances and regulatoryprograms must be in place. These will provide for the fiscal resources to review andapprove BMP plans, inspect their operation, and enforce violations in managementpractices. Ordinances will also assure that temporary erosion and sediment controls are inplace during the construction phase.

Retention Systems

Retention systems rely on absorption of runoff to treat urban runoff discharges.Water is percolated through soils, where filtration and biological action remove pollutants.Systems that rely on soil absorption require a deep layer of permeable soils at separationdistances of at least 1 foot between the bottom of the structure and seasonal ground waterlevels. Using retention systems in a watershed will help to preserve or restorepredevelopment hydrology, increase dry weather base flow, and reduce bankfull floodingfrequency. Retention BMP systems include dry retention basins, exfiltration trenches,concrete grid pavers, vegetated filter strips, and grassed swales.

23

Structural BMP Options Stormwater BMPs

Where ground water requires protection, retention systems may not be appropriate.Restrictions may also apply to systems located above sole source (drinking water)aquifers. Where such designs are selected, they should be incorporated with therecognition that periodic maintenance is necessary for these areas. Long-termeffectiveness in most cases will depend on proper operation and maintenance of the entiresystem. Site and maintenance considerations for retention BMP systems are summarizedat the end of this section in Table 3.

Dry Retention Basins

Dry retention basins are depressed areas where incoming urban runoff istemporarily stored until it gradually filtrates into the surrounding soil. These shouldgradually drain down to maintain aerobic conditions that favor bacteria which aid inpollutant removal and to ensure the basin is ready to receive the next storm (Schueler,1987). Runoff entering the basin is sometimes pretreated to remove coarse sediment thatmay clog the surface soil pore on the basin floor. Concentrated runoff should flow througha sediment trap, or a vegetated filter strip may be used for sheetflow.

Exfiltration Trenches

Exfiltration trenches are perforated pipes buried in trenches that have beenbackfilled with stone or sand/aggregate. Urban runoff diverted into the pipe graduallyinfiltrates from the pipe into the trench and into the subsoil, eventually reaching theground water. A filter cloth surrounding the rock trench is used to minimize clogging.

Concrete Grid Pavers

Surfaces such as concrete grid pavers interspersed with areas of gravel, sand, orgrass can reduce runoff volumes and trap vehicle-generated pollutants. Pavers are mosteffective in very low traffic grassed areas with relatively pervious in-situ soils(nondepressional soils) and require moderate maintenance. However, for best results, thisoption should be used in combination with other BMPs.

Vegetated Filter Strips

Strips of land with vegetated cover are designed to reduce sediment and removepollutants. They are designed to receive overland sheetflow, but provide little treatmentfor concentrated flows. Recommended areas of use are for agriculture and low densitydevelopment. Vegetated filter strips are often used as pretreatment for other structuralpractices, such as dry detention ponds and exfiltration trenches.

Grassed filter strips may develop a berm of sediment at the upper edge that mustbe periodically removed. Mowing will maintain a thicker vegetative cover, providingbetter sediment retention.

24


Forested strips next to water bodies should be left undisturbed except for theremoval of trees that present unusual hazards and small debris that may be refloated byhigh water. Periodic harvesting of some trees not directly adjacent to water bodiesremoves sequestered nutrients (Lowrance et al., 1985) and maintains an efficient filterthrough vigorous vegetation (Hochheimer et al., 1991).

Grassed Swales

Grassed swales are filtration and conveyance mechanisms that are generally usedto provide pretreatment before runoff is discharged to treatment systems. Swales aretypically shallow, vegetated, man-made trenches with a width-to-depth ratio equal to orgreater than 6 to 1, or side slopes equal to or greater than 3-feet horizontal to 1-footvertical. The established width should be maintained to ensure the continued effectivenessand capacity of the system (Bassler, undated). Grassed swales should be mowed tostimulate vegetative growth, control weeds, and maintain the capacity of the system (seeAppendix B).

Detention Systems

Detention BMP systems include dry and wet detention ponds and constructedwetlands. Site and maintenance considerations for detention BMP systems aresummarized at the end of this section in Table 4.

Dry Detention Ponds

Dry detention ponds detain a portion of urban runoff for a short period of time(i.e., up to 24 hours after a storm) using a fixed opening to regulate outflow at a specified

Table 3. Site and Maintenance Considerations for Retention BMP Systemsa

a. Careful attention to erosion and sediment controls is required during construction to keepsediment loads out of retention systems or failures may occur.

BMP Option Site Conditions

Size ofDrainage

Area Maintenance LongevityDry Retention Basins Deep permeable soils Small Low High

Exfiltration Trenches Deep permeable soils Small High Low

Concrete Grid Pavers Deep permeable soils; restricted traffic

Small Moderate Moderate

Vegetated Filter Strips Low density areas Small Low High if maintained

Grassed Swales Low density areas Small Low High if maintained

25

Structural BMP Options Stormwater BMPs

rate and allowing solids and associated pollutants time to settle out. In general, thesesystems are effective in removing total suspended solids but have low treatment efficiencyfor nutrients. They are normally dry between storm events. Siting requirements call for aminimum of one foot from control elevation to the bottom of the detention zone.Therefore, constructing dry detention ponds on wetlands and floodplains should beavoided. Where drainage areas are greater than 250 acres and ponds are being considered,inundation of upstream channels may be of concern.

Wet Detention Ponds

Wet detention ponds are designed to maintain a permanent pool of water andtemporarily store urban runoff until it is released at a controlled rate. Hydraulic holdingtimes are relatively short; such as hours or days. These systems are more efficient inremoving soluble pollutants (nutrients) than dry detention due to the biological activity inthe vegetation and water column. Enhanced designs include a forebay to trap incomingsediment where it can be easily removed. A littoral zone can also be established aroundthe perimeter of the pond.

Constructed Wetlands

Constructed wetlands and multiple pond systems treat runoff through adsorption,plant uptake, filtration, volatilization, precipitation, and microbial decomposition(Livingston et al., 1992). Multiple pond systems in particular have shown potential toprovide much higher levels of treatment (Schueler, 1992). Constructed wetlands aredesigned to simulate the water quality improvement functions of natural wetlands to treatand contain surface water runoff pollutants and decrease loadings. Many of these systemsare currently being designed to include vegetated buffers and deep water areas to providewildlife habitat and aesthetic enhancements. Periodic maintenance is required for thesesystems. Long-term effectiveness will generally depend on proper operation andmaintenance of the entire system.

Constructed wetlands differ from artificial wetlands created to comply withmitigation requirements in that they do not replicate all of the ecological functions ofnatural wetlands. Enhanced designs may include a forebay, complex microtopography,and pondscaping with multiple species of wetland trees, shrubs, and plants.

Table 4. Site and Maintenance Considerations for Detention BMP Systems

BMP Option Site ConditionsSize of

Drainage Area Maintenance LongevityDry Detention Ponds

Any soils Moderate to large

Low High

Wet Detention Ponds

Any soils Moderate to large

Low High

Constructed Wetlands

Poorly drained soils Moderate to large

Requires vegetation harvesting

High

26


Other Systems

Systems other than retention and detention systems include water quality inlets,separation devices, and chemical treatment. Site and maintenance considerations for otherBMP systems are summarized at the end of the section in Table 5.

Water Quality Inlets

Water quality inlets rely on settling to remove pollutants before discharging waterto the storm sewer or other collection system. They are also designed to trap floating trashand debris. When inlets are coupled with oil/grit separators and/or hydrocarbonabsorbents, hydrocarbon loadings from high traffic/parking areas may be reduced.However, experience has shown that pollutant-removal effectiveness is limited, and thedevices should be used only when coupled with extensive clean-out methods (Schueler etal., 1992). Maintenance must include proper disposal of trapped coarse-grained sedimentsand hydrocarbons. Clean-out and disposal costs may be significant.

Catch basins are water quality inlets in their simplest form. They are single-chambered inlets with a lowered bottom to provide 2 to 4 feet of additional space betweenthe outlet pipe for collection of sediment at the bottom of the structure.

Some water quality inlets include two chambers. The first provides effectiveremoval of coarse particles and helps prevent premature clogging of the filter media. Asecond chamber contains a sand filter to provide additional removal of finer suspendedsolids by filtration.

Separation Devices

Separation devices include sumps, baffle boxes, oil/grit separators, and sedimentbasins to capture trash, sediments, and floating debris. They are efficient only withinspecific ranges of volume and discharge rates. Control units usually have a forebay topretreat discharges by separating heavy grit and floating debris before it enters theseparator. Separation processes use gravity, vortex flow, centrifugal force, and even directfiltration. Further treatment may be accomplished by adding chemicals such as alum.After separation, the sediment is collected and transported or pumped to a waste treatmentfacility. These devices may have a high initial investment cost.

Chemical Treatment

Chemical processes include coagulation coupled with solids separation to removepollutants. Iron, aluminum metal salts, and alum are used to coagulate compounds, thenpolymers are added to enhance flocculation and induce settling. The resulting settled flocand solids would need to be disposed and may need dewatering prior to disposal.Chemical processes offer the advantage of low land requirements, flexibility, reliability,decreased detention time requirements, and the ability to enhance water quality to levelssubstantially lower than could be achieved using other methods alone. The drawbacks are

27

Opportunities for BMP Implementation Stormwater BMPs

high capital, operations and maintenance costs, and solid waste managementrequirements.

IX. OPPORTUNITIES FOR BMP IMPLEMENTATION

New Development

Before development occurs, land in a watershed is available for a number ofpollution prevention and treatment options. While BMPs can be implemented during theplanning, design, and construction stage, they must continue to be implemented during thelife of the project. Prevention practices such as planning and zoning tools to ensuresetbacks, buffers, and open space requirements can be implemented with ease at theplanning stage of any development with a high degree of success. In addition, compliancewith local regulations through permitting processes can guarantee incorporation oftreatment options such as wet ponds or constructed wetlands that can improve the waterquality of stormwater runoff. All BMPs discussed in this document are applicable for newdevelopments as site conditions allow.

Retrofitting

In already developed areas, pollution prevention and reduction practices may bemore feasible than treatment controls due to land restrictions. A comprehensivemanagement plan can be developed to first identify pollutant reduction opportunities, then

Table 5. Site and Maintenance Considerations for Other BMP Systems

BMP Option Site ConditionsSize of

Drainage Area Maintenance LongevityWater Quality Inlets

Applicable to many sites, including high density areas with poorly drained soils and extensive impermeable areas

Small High, if clean out of sediment and debris is performed routinely

High if maintained

Separation Devices


Small High, if clean out of sediment and debris is performed routinely

High if maintained

Chemical Treatment


Moderate to large

High, if there is continual input of chemicals along with removal of spent precipitate

High if maintained

28

Stormwater BMPs Opportunities for BMP Implementation

protect existing natural areas that can help control runoff, and finally begin ecologicalrestoration and retrofit activities to clean up degraded water bodies. Citizens can helpprioritize the cleanup strategies, volunteer to become involved with restoration efforts andhelp protect ecologically valuable areas.

Installing or retrofitting water management systems in existing developed areascan be a difficult and costly endeavor. Communities can examine areas where BMPs wereconstructed for flood control purposes to determine if they can be modified to providewater quality benefits. For example, a dry pond can be converted to a wet pond or it can bemodified to increase the detention time by reducing the size of the control outlet. Wetponds can be planted with aquatic vegetation to promote biological uptake processes.

When selecting retrofit program control options, be sure to include structural andnonstructural BMPs. Some examples of BMP options are shown in Table 6.

Site Construction

During the construction stage, whether for new development or retrofit, BMPs canbe implemented to control pollutants resulting from the erosion of disturbed soils. Most ofthese practices focus on controlling the amount of soil erosion and sedimentation, therebyminimizing subsequent adverse impacts of downstream water bodies. In addition,application, generation, and migration of toxic substances can be limited by properlystoring, handling, applying, and disposing of pesticides, petroleum products, nutrients,solid wastes, and construction chemicals. For example, construction sites should establishfuel and vehicle maintenance staging areas; equipment and machinery washing areas; andseparate storage, handling, and mixing areas for pesticides and fertilizers, all located awayfrom waterways. As with new development and retrofits, the educational component iscritical to the effectiveness of any of the BMPs. Construction workers need to be trainedabout the goals of the plan and actions required of them for the BMP to be successful.

An effective plan for minimizing and controlling erosion and sedimentation duringconstruction shall include, at a minimum, the following basic principles:

• Minimize soil exposure through organized scheduling of grading andconstruction activities

• Retain existing vegetation whenever feasible• Stabilize all denuded areas within 3 days after final grading; disturbed

areas that are inactive and will be exposed to rain for 30 days or moreshould be temporarily stabilized; stabilization techniques includemulches, vegetation and sod, and chemical applications

• Control runoff by diverting stormwater away from stripped areas ornewly seeded slopes, minimize the length and steepness of slopes, andinstall check dams, level spreaders, and outlet protection to preventerosion

• Install sediment trapping structures such as silt traps, sediment basins,filter fabric, perimeter dikes, and inlet protection

• Inspect and maintain control measures regularly

29

Opportunities for BMP Implementation Stormwater BMPs

Table 6. BMP Options for Retrofit Control

Major Structural Controls • Sedimentation or filtration units• Dry detention ponds (conversion to wet ponds)• Retaining walls• Sanitary sewer rehabilitation• Constructed wetlands • Chemical treatment

Minor Structural Controls • Rip rap at pipe outfalls• Retrofit of catch basins with oil traps and/or grit traps and/

or filters• Trash racks • Curb inlet filters• Oil-grit and oil-water separators• Exfiltration trenches and/or buffer strips• Grassed swales

Major Nonstructural Controls • Bank stabilization of waterways• Dredging in drainage ways • Water body cleanup effort• Open space acquisition• Ordinances and regulatory programs• Conservation, recycling, and source control programs

Minor Nonstructural Controls • Enhanced street sweeping• Parking lot sweeping• Storm drain stenciling • Vegetation control in main ditches

Preventative/Maintenance Oriented Controls

• Increased frequency of catch basin and manhole cleaning• Turf and landscape management• Road maintenance• Ditch/creek cleaning

Public Awareness and Education • Litter prevention• Trash and debris dumping prevention• Toxic materials/oil and grease dumping prevention

Enhanced Enforcement • Construction activities• Illegal dumping and disposal• Commercial non-stormwater discharges

Continuing Assessment • Sediment sampling• Dry weather monitoring• Wet weather monitoring• Facility, appurtenances, and other BMP inspection

30

Stormwater BMPs Conclusions

X. CONCLUSIONSWater management activities have evolved from singular practices that addressed

individual needs and crisis situations to multiple objective programs that manage watersupply and conservation, and preservation of surface water and natural systems. Thecontinued growth of the population demands that we take a holistic approach in waterresource planning and management to support our quality of life.

As stormwater runoff is a major source of pollution to our wetlands, rivers, lakes,and estuaries, local governments must take responsibility for its control. No water qualitycontrol program should be implemented in a vacuum. An understanding of the origin andcauses of nonpoint source pollution is essential to the development of comprehensive,effective, and efficient control practices. BMPs should be integrated into multipleobjective programs to ensure that watershed goals are cooperatively met. Such programswill fall under state and regional water policies and ordinances and should be consistentwith comprehensive short- and long-term objectives.

In many cases, BMP implementation can provide supplemental benefits for localcitizens. Environmental and aesthetic enhancements can be achieved through thoughtfuldesign, conscientious maintenance, and creative landscaping.

XI. REFERENCESBassler, R.E., Jr. Undated. Grassed Waterway Maintenance. Agricultural Engineering

Fact Sheet No. 129, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Maryland, CollegePark, MD.

Buck, E.H. 1991. Corals and Coral Reef Protection. CRS report for Congress,Congressional Research Service, Washington, D.C.

Camp, Dresser, and McKee, Inc. 1993. California Municipal Best Management PracticeHandbook. Stormwater Quality Task Force, CA.

Chesapeake Bay Local Government Advisory Committee. 1988. Recommendations of theNonpoint Source Control Subcommittee to the Local Government Advisory CommitteeConcerning Nonpoint Source Control Needs. A draft white paper for discussion at theLocal Government Advisory Committee’s First Annual Conference.

CH2M Hill. 1991. Best Management Practices and Construction Standards for LocalGovernment Stormwater Management. SEF30359.A0, Deerfield Beach, FL.

Department of Environmental Resources. 1997 (REV 112597). Low-Impact DevelopmentDesign Manual. Prince George's County, Maryland.

FDEP. 1995. Best Management Practices for Golf Course Maintenance Departments.Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Tallahassee, FL. 18 pp.

FDER. 1992. The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and WaterManagement, Florida Department of Environmental Regulation, Tallahassee, FL.

31

References Stormwater BMPs

Florida Fertilizer and Agrichemical Association. 1997. Best Management Practices forBlended Fertilizer Plants in Florida. Tallahassee, FL. 13 pp. + Appendices.

Harper, H.H. 1985. Fate of Heavy Metals from Highway Runoff in StormwaterManagement Systems. Ph.D. Dissertation, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL.

Harper, H.H. 1999. Stormwater Chemistry and Water Quality: Estimating PollutantLoadings and Evaluation of Best Management Practices for Water QualityImprovements. In: Proceedings 6th Biennial Stormwater Research and WatershedManagement Conference. September 14-17, 1999. Southwest Florida WaterManagement District, Tampa, FL.

Hochheimer, A., A. Cvacas, and L. Shoemaker. 1991. Interim Report: Vegetative BufferStrips Draft. Prepared by Tetra-Tech, Inc., for the United States EnvironmentalProtection Agency.

Horner, R.R. 1994. Fundamentals of Urban Runoff Management: Technical andInstitutional Issues. Terrene Institute and United States Environmental ProtectionAgency, Washington, DC. 301 pp.

Livingston E., E. McCarron, J. Cox, and P. Sanzone. 1992. The Florida DevelopmentManual: A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management. Florida Department ofEnvironmental Resources, Tallahassee, FL.

Lowrance, R., R. Leonard, and J. Sheridan. 1985. Managing Riparian Ecosystems toControl Nonpoint Pollution. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 40(1):87-91.

Northern Virginia Planning District Commission. 1996. Nonstructural Urban BMPHandbook. Annandale, Virginia. 306 pp.

Randall, C.W., K. Ellis, T.J. Grizzard, and W.R. Knocke. 1982. Urban Runoff PollutantRemoval by Sedimentation. In: Stormwater Detention Facilities, Proceedings of anEngineering Foundation Conference, ASCE, New York, NY.

Schueler, T.R. 1987. Controlling Urban Runoff: A Practical Manual for Planning andDesigning Urban Best Management Practices, Metropolitan Washington Council ofGovernment, Washington, D.C.

Schueler, T.R. 1992. A Current Assessment of Urban Best Management Practices.Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. Washington, DC, 127 pp.

Schueler, T.R. 1992. Design of Stormwater Wetland Systems. Metropolitan WashingtonCouncil of Governments, Washington, D.C.

SFWMD, 1988. An Assessment of Urban Land Use/Stormwater Runoff QualityRelationships and Treatment Efficiencies of Selected Stormwater ManagementSystems. Technical Publication 88-9, South Florida Water Management District, WestPalm Beach, FL.

Terrene Institute and USEPA. 1996. A Watershed Approach to Urban Runoff: Handbookfor Decionmakers. Terrene Institute, Washington, DC, in cooperation with Region 5United States Environmental Protection Agency, Chicago, IL.

32

Stormwater BMPs References

Urban Drainage and Flood Control District. 1999. Urban Storm Drainage, CriteriaManual, Volume 3 - Best Management Practices. Denver, Colorado.

USEPA. 1983. Final Report of the Nationwide Urban Runoff Program, Final Draft,Volume 1. WH-554, Water Planning Division, United States Environmental ProtectionAgency, Washington, DC.

USEPA. 1986. Quality Criteria for Water 1986. Report 440/586001, Office of Water,United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.

USEPA. 1993. Guidance Specifying Management Measures for Sources of NonpointPollution in Coastal Waters. EPA-840-B-92-002, United States EnvironmentalProtection Agency, Washington, DC.

USEPA. 1999. Preliminary Data Summary of Urban Stormwater Best ManagementPractices. EPA-821-R-99-012, United States Environmental Protection Agency,Washington, DC.

Wanielista, M.P. 1977. Quality Considerations in the Design of Holding Ponds.Stormwater Retention/Detention Basins Seminar, University of Central Florida,Orlando, FL.

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality. 1999. Urban Best ManagementPractices for Nonpoint Source Pollution. Cheyenne, WY, 139 pp.

33

Stormwater BMPs Appendix A

Appendix ATYPICAL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH

STRUCTURAL BMPS

The typical costs associated with each BMP type, along with maintenance issuesand concerns and design guidelines and resources, are summarized in Table A-1. Thereferences used to compile the information in the table are listed following the table. Thesuperscripts following items in the table indicate the reference from which the informationwas obtained.

A-1

Stormw

ater BM

PsAppendix A

A-3

ns Design Guidelines and Resources

Dry Rend

nd as

e

Refer to Section SW BMP 3.07, in The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management.4

Exfiltrat

is

Refer to the Management and Storage of Surface Water - Permit Information Manual, Vol. IV, Design Example of Exfiltration Trench,10 and Section SW BMP 3.03 in The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management.4

Concre ris f

nd

Refer to Section SW BMP 3.01 in The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management.4

Table A-1. Typical Costs Associated with Structural BMPs

BMPType

Installation or Construction Costs

Operation, Inspection, and Maintenance Costs Maintenance Issues and Concer

RETENTION SYSTEMStention Basins $0.50-$1.00 per cubic foot

(cu. ft.) of storage.13• Annually, 3-6% of initial construction

costs13• Facility must be inspected every 6

months or after a major storm event aany debris must be removed.

• Control structure must be inspected amaintained semiannually and repairedneeded.

• Accumulated sediments must be removed at least once annually.

• Rototilling or disking the basin bottomshould be done annually.

• Embankments and side slopes must bmaintained.

• Use fertilizers only if absolutely necessary.

ion Trenches $2.50-$7.91 per cu. ft. of treatment volume.12,13,16,20

• Costs are annually averaged to 3-20% of capital cost for buffer strip maintenance, trench inspection, and rehabilitation that is required every 5-15 years.9,11,13,20

• Trench rehabilitation depends on site conditions and degree of clogging.16

• Trenches must be inspected regularlyand debris removed, especially after large rain events.

• Periodic repair and sediment removalneeded to facilitate exfiltration.

te Grid Pavers $0.50-$2.00 per square foot (sq. ft.) of surface area.21,12

• 5% of initial construction costs.21 • Trash, grass clippings, and other debshould be removed from the surface othe area as needed.

• Pavers must be inspected regularly adebris removed, especially after largerain events.

• Nutrient and pesticide management should be performed as needed.

Appendix AStorm

water BM

Ps

A-4

as needed.uired.ation aids in ents erosion.emoved ing effect.

agement eded.12,19

trees not dies removes aintains an

us

, vehicular trian traffic

t removal is zation.

Refer to Section SW BMP 1.61-1.85 and 3.04 in The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management.4

ld be ntinued

of the system. mowed to , control pacity of the

intenance, l are required

sion at least

ng, or t least every

agement eded. must be nce

Refer to Section SW BMP 3.04 in The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management.4

General design criteria are also detailed in the Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet, Vegetated Swales.19

ontinued)

Concerns Design Guidelines and Resources
Vegetated Filter Strips
$0.00-$1.30 per sq. ft.

The lowest cost assumes that existing vegetation was used. The higher cost assumes sod was used.13

• $100-$1,400 per acre annually.• The lower cost assumes that

existing vegetation was used.• The higher cost assumes sod was

used.12

• Mowing must be performed• Aeration of filter strips is req• Maintaining a healthy veget

removal efficiency and prev• Sediment buildup must be r

annually to prevent a damm• Nutrient and pesticide man

should be performed as ne• Periodic harvesting of some

directly adjacent to water bosequestered nutrients and mefficient filter through vigorovegetation.

• To minimize soil compactiontraffic and excessive pedesshould be avoided.

• Periodic repair and sedimenneeded to prevent channeli

Grassed Swales $0.60-$1.60 per sq. ft.11,19 • Annually 5-7% of initial construction costs.13

• The established width shoumaintained to ensure the coeffectiveness and capacity

• Grassed swales should be stimulate vegetative growthweeds, and maintain the casystem.

• Inspections, vegetation mamowing, and debris removaat least annually.

• Inspect check dams for eroannually.

• Sediment removal, reseediresodding should be done a5 years.4

• Nutrient and pesticide manshould be performed as ne

• Residents that have swaleseducated on their maintenarequirements.

Table A-1. Typical Costs Associated with Structural BMPs (C

BMPType


Operation, Inspection, and Maintenance Costs Maintenance Issues and

Stormw

ater BM

PsAppendix A

A-5

Dry Dend

nd as

e

Dry detention pond requirements are specified in Management and Storage of Surface Waters - Permit Information Manual Volume IV,10 and USEPA, 1999e.17 Also, refer to Section SW BMP 3.07 in The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management.4

Wet Dend

nd as

e

Refer to Management and Storage of Surface Waters - Permit Information Manual Volume IV,10 and Section SW BMP 3.02 in The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management.4

ConstruWetland

t in

e

Isolated wetland requirements are specified in Management and Storage of Surface Waters - Permit Information Manual Volume IV.10 General design criteria are detailed in the Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet, Stormwater Wetlands.18

)

ns Design Guidelines and Resources
DETENTION SYSTEMS
tention Ponds $0.50-$1.00 per cu. ft. of storage.13

• 1-5% of initial construction costs averaged annually.12,13

• Facility must be inspected every 6 months or after a major storm event aany debris must be removed.

• Control structure must be inspected amaintained semiannually, and repairedneeded.13

• Accumulated sediments must be removed at least once annually.

• Rototilling or disking the basin bottomshould be done annually.

• Embankments and side slopes must bmaintained.


tention Ponds Overall $0.50-$1.00 per cu. ft. of storage.3

Costs depend on topography and soils. A natural area of depression and pliant soils reduce costs.

• Annually 3-5% of initial construction costs8 (includes grass mowing, debris and litter removal, inlet, outlet, embankment inspections, sediment removal, and disposal).

• Facility must be inspected every six months or after a major storm event aany debris must be removed.

• Control structure must be inspected amaintained semiannually, and repairedneeded.

• Accumulated sediments must be removed every five years.

• Embankments and side slopes must bmaintained and repaired as needed.


cted s

$0.05-$1.00 per cu. ft. of storage.13,18

• Annually 1-5% of initial construction costs.13,18

• Slope control and removal of sedimenforebays.

• Removal of trash, debris, and nuisancspecies.

• Supplemental plantings.

•

Table A-1. Typical Costs Associated with Structural BMPs (Continued

BMPType


Operation, Inspection, and Maintenance Costs Maintenance Issues and Concer

Appendix AStorm

water BM

Ps

A-6

coarse-rocarbons is

ts may be

are high if ebris is

drocarbon year.

Local design manuals and vendor catalogs for retrofit units and hydrocarbon absorbent.

ment removal

coarse-ed. ts may be

are high if ebris is

General design criteria are detailed in the Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet, Hydrodynamic Separators.15

icals are precipitate is

t be pumped eriodic basis.

rmally sent to allow for the sanitary ds.5

Not available.

ontinued)

Concerns Design Guidelines and Resources
OTHER SYSTEMS
Water Quality Inlets Capital costs range from $1,100-$3,000 per precast unit12 and $600-$900 for retrofitted unit2.

• Hydrocarbon absorbents cost approximately $1002.

• Maintenance of each unit costs $7.50-$90 per unit assuming the unit is cleaned out two times each year2.

• Proper disposal of trapped grained sediments and hydrequired.

• Clean-out and disposal cossignificant.

• Maintenance requirements clean out of sediment and dperformed routinely.

• Requires replacement of hyabsorbent at least once per

Separation Devices Capital costs range from $2,300-$40,000 per precast unit. The size of the unit is based on site specific conditions.15

• The cost of cleaning out separator systems varies depending on the type of separator used, normally less than $1,000 per year.15

• Period inspections and sediare required.15

• Proper disposal of trapped grained sediments is requir

• Clean-out and disposal cossignificant.

• Maintenance requirements clean out of sediment and dperformed routinely.

Chemical Treatment For an alum stormwater treatment facility, with an average cost of $245,000 per system serving a drainage area with an average size of 310 acres, the average cost is $790 per acre treated.5

• Average annual operation and maintenance cost is $100 per acre of drainage area served.5

• Maintenance is high if chemcontinually input and spent removed.

• Accumulated alum floc musout of the sump area on a p

• The accumulated floc is noa landfill, but some systemsautomatic floc disposal intosewer or adjacent drying be

Table A-1. Typical Costs Associated with Structural BMPs (C

BMPType


Operation, Inspection, and Maintenance Costs Maintenance Issues and

Stormwater BMPs Appendix A

REFERENCES1. American Public Works Association. 1984. Urban Stormwater Management, Special

Report No. 49, Chicago, Illinois.

2. ASCE-EWRI. 2001. A Guide for Best Management Practice (BMP) Selection inUrban Developed Areas.

3. Center for Watershed Protection. 1998. Cost and Benefits of Stormwater BMPs.Ellicott City, MD.

4. FDER. 1992. The Florida Development Manual - A Guide to Sound Land and WaterManagement, Florida Department of Environmental Regulation, Tallahasee, FL.

5. Harper, H.H., J.L. Herr, and E. Livingston. 1998. Alum Treatment of Stormwater:The First Ten Years. New Applications in Modeling Water Systems. Orlando, FL.

6. Herr, J.L., and H.H. Harper. 1999. Removal of Gross Pollutants from StormwaterRunoff Using Liquid/Solid Separation Structures.

7. NVPDC and Engineers and Surveyors Institute. 1992. Northern Virginia BMPHandbook: A Guide to Planning and Designing Best Management Practices inNorthern Virginia. Northern Virginia Planning District Commission andEngineers and Surveyors Institute, VA.

8. Schueler, T.R. 1992. A Current Assessment of Urban Best Management Practices,Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, Washington, DC.

9. Schueler, T.R. 1987. Controlling Urban Runoff: A Practical Manual for Planningand Designing Urban Best Management Practices, Metropolitan WashingtonCouncil of Governments, Washington, DC.

10. SFWMD. 1994. Management and Storage of Surface Waters - Permit InformationManual Volume IV. South Florida Water Management District, West PalmBeach, FL.

11. SEWRPC. 1991. Costs of Urban Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Control MeasuresTechnical Report No. 31, Southeastern Wisconsin Regional PlanningCommission, WI.

12. USEPA. 1993. Guidance Specifying Management Measures for Sources of NonpointPollution in Coastal Waters. EPA 840-B-92-002, Office of Water, United StatesEnvironmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.

13. USEPA. 1999a. Preliminary Data Summary of Urban Stormwater Best ManagementPractices. EPA 821-R-99-012, Office of Water, United States EnvironmentalProtection Agency, Washington, DC.

14. USEPA. 1999b. Stormwater O&M Fact Sheet - Catch Basin Cleaning.EPA 832-F-99-011, Office of Water, United States Environmental ProtectionAgency, Washington, DC.

A-7

Appendix A Stormwater BMPs

15. USEPA. 1999c. Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet - Hydrodynamic Separators.EPA 832-F-99-017, Office of Water, United States Environmental ProtectionAgency, Washington, DC.

16. USEPA. 1999d. Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet - Infiltration Trench. EPA 832-F-99-019, Office of Water, United States Environmental Protection Agency,Washington, DC.

17. USEPA. 1999e. Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet - Porous Pavement.EPA 832-F-99-023, Office of Water, United States Environmental ProtectionAgency, Washington, DC.

18. USEPA. 1999g. Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet - Stormwater Wetlands.EPA 832-F-99-025, Office of Water, United States Environmental ProtectionAgency, Washington, DC.

19. USEPA. 1999h. Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet - Vegetated Swales.EPA 832-F-99-006, Office of Water, United States Environmental ProtectionAgency, Washington, DC.

20. USEPA. 1999i. Stormwater Technology Fact Sheet - Wet Detention Ponds. EPA 832-F-99-048, Office of Water, United States Environmental Protection Agency,Washington, DC.

21. USEPA. 2000. Draft National Urban Management Measure Guidance. Office ofWater, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.

A-8

Stormwater BMPs Appendix B

Appendix BTURF AND LANDSCAPING BEST MANAGEMENT

PRACTICES

Proper fertilization, irrigation, and mowing practices lead to healthy lawns andurban landscaping. A healthy lawn can exist in harmony with local and regional naturalsystems, especially in areas with considerable amounts of developed land includingimpervious surfaces such as parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways.

Proper fertilization of turf grass will produce a dense root system and can actuallyreduce leaching and runoff. A lawn with a good root system and shoot density reducespollution because it allows for greater infiltration of stormwater into both the thatch androot zones of the lawn. This filtering process facilitates the breakdown of various types oforganic pollutants and pesticides and significantly reduces the possibility of pollutionrunoff by helping to impede the movement of stormwater.

FERTILIZER BMPS

Choosing Fertilizer

When purchasing fertilizer, read the labels and choose one that fulfills thefollowing criteria:

1. It is a slow release fertilizer. Homeowners and other nonprofessionalsshould use only slow release fertilizers. Only a trained professionalshould apply products comprised predominately of quick release orwater-soluble fertilizers. Slow release fertilizers will significantlyreduce the potential for nutrient runoff and leaching because it has beenmanufactured to release nutrients gradually. Therefore, fertilizershaving a higher percentage of slow-release nutrients have reducedpotential for environmental impact and damage to the turf grass.

2. It contains 30 to 50 percent or more slow release nitrogen and littlephosphorus. Every fertilizer label has three numbers representing thepercent by weight of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in thefertilizer. For example, a fertilizer bag with the numbers “8-2-10”indicates that the bag of fertilizer contains 8 percent nitrogen, 2 percentphosphorus, and 10 percent potassium.

- Nitrogen - When fertilizing lawns in South Florida, use afertilizer with 30 to 50 percent (or more) of slow releaseform of nitrogen. Up to one pound of slow release nitrogencan be applied per 1,000 square feet at each fertilizerapplication. If you are not using slow release fertilizer,

B-1

Appendix B Stormwater BMPs

apply no more than one-half pound of nitrogen per 1,000square feet with any single application.

- Phosphorus - Phosphorus is the second number in thefertilizer analysis identified on every fertilizer bag. Mostlandscapes in South Florida do not need additionalamounts of phosphorus applied to the soil. Misapplicationof phosphorus has the potential to result in nutrientpollution. The high levels of phosphorus in stormwaterthat drain into South Florida canals pose a serious threat tothe water quality of the Everglades. Therefore, beforeusing a fertilizer containing more than 2 percentphosphorus, test the soil to determine if addingphosphorus is warranted.

- Potassium - Potassium is the third number in the fertilizeranalysis identified on every fertilizer bag. Potassium isbelieved by some lawn applicators to provide the lawnwith increased stress tolerance against effects of drought,cold temperatures, and traffic by strengthening the rootsystem.

3. The label contains complete directions for proper applicationprocedures. Besides increasing the potential for nutrient runoff orleaching into canals and waterways, too much fertilizer can promotedisease in the lawn, excessive damage from insects, and unnecessarystress from droughts.

Application

When applying fertilizer, practice the following:

1. For both your lawn and the environment, it is better to apply fertilizerto turf grass in three small applications throughout the year than in onesingle application.

2. If possible, reduce application rates in the summer if possible.

3. Watch the weather before fertilizing. Whenever possible, postponefertilizing when a precipitation of greater than 1 inch of rain isexpected. This will also reduce the loss of fertilizer to stormwater thatwill end up in nearby canals or waterways.

4. Calibrate and adjust fertilizer spreaders to prevent misapplication.

5. To prevent spillage, use a tarp or sheet of plastic under the spreaderwhen filling or emptying fertilizer spreaders.

6. Maintain a minimum three-foot “ring of responsibility” aroundwaterways by keeping fertilizer and pesticide applications away fromthe water’s edge or the “edge of vegetation.”

B-2


7. When applying fertilizer, make sure that the fertilizer does not fall ontoimpervious surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, or streets. Sweep orblow granular fertilizers off hard surfaces onto the lawn. Never “hoseoff” fertilizer that has been spilled onto an impervious surface.

8. After emptying the unused fertilizer in the spreader back into the bag,rinse the spreader out in a corner of the yard. Do not wash the fertilizerspreader on an impervious surface.

9. Remember to use slow release a fertilizer with a low percentage ofphosphorus and read and follow the label very carefully.

TURF IRRIGATION BMPSProperly irrigating turf grass will keep water in the root zone, reduce excess

application of water, and retain stormwater on site. This can be accomplished byimplementing the following BMPs:

1. Let your grass tell you when to water. The lawn requires irrigationwhen it shows a wilt in the late afternoon for several days or a week.Only irrigate in accordance with water restrictions. Single-event timerscan be integrated into your sprinkler systems, allowing you make aconscientious decision each time you irrigate.

2. Irrigate the lawn just enough to replenish the root zone. Approximately3/4 inch of water will accomplish this. Depending on the type of sprayheads, this may be as short as 13 minutes or as long as 30 minutes,provided that the heads are properly spaced. Rotary heads typicallyrequire longer intervals, typically 30 minutes to 1.5 hours or more. Theappropriate watering interval can be determined based on systemcharacteristics or a “catchment” can test.

3. Test your system using a “catchment can” test. Scatter 20 to 30 cylindercontainers (such as soup cans) throughout the landscape, run the zonefor a defined period (such as 30 minutes), and measure the depth ineach can. The results will tell you how long you must irrigate, and willpinpoint problem areas for maintenance or redesign. Periodically retestyour sprinkler system, inspect spray patterns, and ensure uniformity ofwatering by providing overlap with head-to-head coverage.

4. Use a rain gauge and turn off your time clock if your lawn has received3/4 inch of rain. A rain gauge is a useful reminder that rainfall providesall the water a lawn requires most of the year in Florida.

5. Add a rain shut-off device to your sprinkler system or an in-groundmoisture sensor such as a tensiometer. Such a device or sensoroverrides the normally scheduled irrigation whenever sufficient rainhas occurred. This is especially helpful if you plan to be away fromyour home.

B-3


6. Encourage and remind your neighbors to implement BMPs as well.Share this information with them and talk about Florida's wet-dry cycleand about everyone's responsibility to respect and abide by irrigationlaws.

7. Encourage your municipality (or the county) to enforce irrigation laws.

8. Make sure the people you hire to install and repair your irrigationsystem are licensed professionals.

9. Adopt performance standards for irrigation systems so that when theyare installed, they meet targeted efficiency and uniformity ofapplication criteria.

10. Lay out irrigation systems efficiently to attain high uniformity. Use apipe size large enough to keep pressure losses at a minimum, and tohelp achieve uniformity. Establish separate zones for turf andornamental plants. Use drip or micro irrigation for shrubs and beddedplants. Place rotary heads and spray heads in separate zones. Make surethat all sprinklers are placed as closely as recommended inmanufacturers' specifications. This normally requires that the radiuscovered by one sprinkler head should just barely reach the adjoiningsprinkler heads.

11. Examine the irrigation system and repair any leaks. Clean out cloggedsprinkler emitters, and remove obstacles and low overhanging branchesthat block stream flow. Raise any sprinkler heads that do not clear theturf canopy, or use pop-ups. Replace any heads and fittings that arebroken or cracked. Use partial (half- or quarter-circle) heads to replacefull-circle heads that over spray onto the street or buildings. Consideradding heads in areas that do not receive enough water. The solution todry spots is to fix the irrigation in that zone, and not to over water therest of your property to compensate for poor coverage.

12. Vary irrigation schedules according to the season. For example, fromNovember through February, irrigate St. Augustine grass no more thanonce every seven days, and from March through October, irrigate it twotimes per week, except after rain.

13. Use an irrigation schedule suitable for the type of grass and the terrain.For example, Bahia grass in level areas can be maintained year-roundwith no irrigation.

14. When establishing or renovating a new lawn, make sure that the soddoes not dry out, but irrigate no more than once a day.

15. Water your lawn infrequently and deeply. Frequent shallow irrigationencourages a shallow root system, which has a small soil moisturereserve and will make the lawn more susceptible to drought. Frequentirrigation also fails to take advantage of the fact that it is rarely dry forlong in South Florida, and by waiting a little longer for rainfall, it ispossible that you will not have to irrigate at all. Grasses that are over

B-4


watered go into a condition of luxuriant water use and they will usewater less efficiently.

16. Capture and recycle rainwater for use on turf, thereby reducing relianceon city water. For example, raised road areas can avoid the use of hardcurbing to allow water to run off into the landscape. An approach forparking lots is to interrupt curbing with gaps that permit drainage intothe landscape.

17. Comply with seasonal water use restrictions imposed by the SouthFlorida Water Management District or other authority.

18. Remember, with or without water conservation restrictions, do notirrigate your lawn between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. For best results,water in the early morning. A predawn watering is the most productivetype of irrigation because there is less wind at this time.

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT BMPSTypical urban landscapes that are not maintained using BMPs can at best be

unwelcome neighbors to natural communities, and at worst a serious threat to naturalsystems. It is possible, however, to maintain urban landscapes in a manner that allows theurban environment to coexist with natural systems with little or no degradation of thenatural environment. Two types of BMPs can help accomplish this. The first typemaintains a healthy vegetative cover that will reduce the amount of phosphorus, nitrogen,and other potential pollutants from entering into regional canals, waterways, lakes, andultimately the Everglades. The second type of BMPs are cultural practices that keep turfand landscaping healthy and tolerant to South Florida seasons, insects and pests, and otherenvironmental stresses.

Vegetative Cover BMPs1. When selecting plant materials consider native species or noninvasive

plant species that are adapted to South Florida’s tropical andsubtropical environment and can thrive despite fluctuations in theregion’s wet and dry seasons.

2. Select plants from a reputable nursery, garden center, or sod farm toinsure healthy, conditioned plants that are free of pests and weeds.

3. When installing plants, make sure they are properly sited, depending onthe plant, with respect to sunlight, drainage and space requirements.This will help improve the chances for successful establishment andwill reduce future maintenance needs.

Cultural Practices1. Mow at the recommended height for your grass species. For Bahia and

St. Augustine grasses, the recommended height is generally the highest

B-5


setting your mower can be set at. Be careful not to remove any morethan one-third of the leaf blade at a time because the removal of moretissue will stress the grass, leaving it more vulnerable to drought orinsects.

2. Mowing at least once a week will produce a lawn with a deeper, moreextensive root system. Deeper root systems result in better tolerance ofenvironmental stresses such as drought, shade and traffic. Propermowing practices will also result in fewer problems with insects ordisease.

3. Practice “grass cycling,” or mulching by leaving clippings on theground. This helps to return nutrients to the soil. Encourageneighborhood or homeowner associations to allow composting andfollow recommended practices for composting organic wastes such asgrass clippings, leaves, and other organic waste.

4. Make sure grass clippings do not blow into water bodies or ontoimpervious surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, or street curbswhere they will eventually end up in your canal or lake during rainevents. Nutrients trapped in organic matter, such as grass clippings,leaves, and branches, can be rereleased as pollutants when organicdebris enters basin canals, waterways, and lakes.

5. Properly prune trees at least annually to reduce storm-generated leafand limb debris that can interfere with canal function during stormevents.

GENERAL LANDSCAPE BMPSSome additional landscape BMPs are as follows:

1. Make sure the people you hire to care for your lawn, landscaping, andwaterways are licensed professionals and that they are aware of therelationship between household habits and the health of naturalsystems.

2. Do not allow fertilizers, pesticides, lawn clippings, soil, and otherlandscaping materials to collect on impervious surfaces where they canbe washed off into storm drains connected to canals and waterways.

3. Rinse off pesticide and fertilizer application equipment on the grass andaway from impervious surfaces such as driveways or sidewalks. Becareful to minimize the likelihood of spills and runoff into storm drainsand into connected canals and lakes.

4. Keep swales on your property clear to allow stormwater to flowunimpeded. Do not backfill or park on swales, and do not plant trees orshrubs in swales.

B-6


5. Property managers as well as homeowners should establish realistic,measurable outcomes for landscape BMPs, so their adoption andimpact can be achieved and evaluated.

6. Educate your neighbors and homeowner associations about differenttypes of fertilizer and the appropriate applications for South Florida.

7. Provide recognition and awards to good environmental stewards inyour neighborhood and community to generate excitement andcommunity pride regarding BMPs.

B-7

Stormwater BMPs Appendix C

Appendix CSTRUCTURAL BMP FACT SHEETS

This appendices contains fact sheets that provide a summary for each of thestructural BMP options mentioned in the document. These fact sheets are designed asquick reference guides to be used in the field.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SFWMD-BMP-RS-1 - Retention Systems - Dry Retention Basins ........C-3

SFWMD-BMP-RS-2 - Retention Systems - Exfiltration Trenches.........C-5

SFWMD-BMP-RS-3 - Retention Systems - Concrete Grid Pavers ........C-7

SFWMD-BMP-RS-4 - Retention Systems - Vegetated Filter Strips.......C-9

SFWMD-BMP-RS-5 - Retention Systems - Grassed Swales................C-11

SFWMD-BMP-DS-1 - Detention Systems - Dry Detention Ponds.......C-13

SFWMD-BMP-DS-2 - Detention Systems - Wet Detention Ponds ......C-15

SFWMD-BMP-DS-3 - Detention Systems - Constructed Wetlands .....C-17

SFWMD-BMP-OS-1 - Other Systems - Water Quality Inlets ..............C-19

SFWMD-BMP-OS-2 - Other Systems - Separation Devices ................C-21

SFWMD-BMP-OS-3 - Other Systems - Chemical Treatment ..............C-23

C-1

Targeted PollutantsSuspended SedimentsTotal PhosphorusTotal NitrogenHeavy MetalsOxygen Demanding SubstancesTrace MetalsBacteria

Implementation Requirements

Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-RS-1 - Retention Systems - Dry Retention Basins

DESCRIPTION• Dry retention basins are depressed areas where incoming urban runoff is temporarily

stored until it gradually filtrates into the surrounding soil.

SELECTION CRITERIA• Deep permeable soils (minimum one-half inch per hour infiltration rate).• Small drainage area.

LIMITATIONS• May not be appropriate where ground water requires protection. • Restrictions may apply to systems located above sole source (drinking water) aquifers.• Long-term effectiveness in most cases will depend on proper operation and maintenance

of the entire system. • Low longevity.

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Require a deep layer of permeable soils at separation distances of at least 1 foot between

the bottom of the structure and seasonal ground water levels.• Runoff should gradually drain (infiltrate) down to maintain aerobic conditions that favor

bacteria that aid in pollutant removal and to ensure the basin is ready to receive the nextstorm (check local regulations also).

• Runoff entering the basin may require pretreatment to remove coarse sediment that mayclog the surface soil pore on the basin floor.

C-3

• Concentrated runoff should flow through a sediment trap• A vegetated filter strip may be used for sheetflow.• A design safety factor of 2 is recommended.• Side slopes of 1:4 are recommended if riding mower is to be used.• A bottom slope of 2 percent or close to zero is recommended to maximize infiltration.• To avoid resuspension of settled out solids, nonerosive velocities should be maintained along pond bottoms during

peak runoff events.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Design soil conditions must be confirmed during excavation.• Driving of heavy equipment over retention basin must be avoided during and after construction.• If retention basin is used for sediment and erosion control during construction, the last one foot at basin bottom should

not be excavated to final grade until the entire drainage area has been stabilized.• After final grading, deep tilling of the infiltration area is recommended to maximize infiltration.• Stabilize with vegetation within one week after construction.• Basin bottom should be seeded, instead of sodded, to maximize infiltration.

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Facility must be inspected every 6 months or after a major storm event and any debris must be removed.• Control structure must be inspected and maintained semiannually and repaired as needed.• Accumulated sediments must be removed at least once annually.• Rototilling or disking the basin bottom should be done annually.• Embankments and side slopes must be maintained.• Use fertilizers only if absolutely necessary.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Facility could have ancillary use (recreation) when dry.• Construction ranges from $0.50 to $1.00 per cubic foot.• Annual maintenance ranges from 3 to 6 percent of capital costs.

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Targeted PollutantsSuspended SedimentsTotal PhosphorusTotal NitrogenHeavy MetalsOxygen Demanding SubstancesTrace MetalsBacteria


Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-RS-2 - Retention Systems - Exfiltration Trenches

DESCRIPTIONExfiltration trenches are perforated pipes buried in trenches that have been backfilled withstone or sand/aggregate. Urban runoff diverted into the pipe gradually infiltrates from thepipe into the trench and into the subsoil, eventually reaching the ground water.

SELECTION CRITERIA• Recommended for high density development.• Deep permeable soils.• Small drainage area.

LIMITATIONS• Provides little treatment for high flows.• Not to be considered towards flood attenuation requirements.• Restrictions may apply to systems located above sole source (drinking water) aquifers. • Soil must have good infiltration rates (at least 0.5 inches per hour).• Low longevity, high maintenance.

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Filter cloth is required at least around the top and sides of the trench to minimize

clogging.• Minimum trench width is 3 feet.• Pipe must be at least 12 inches in diameter.• Ground water table must be at or below invert of pipe.• A safety factor of two or more should be used to allow for geological uncertainties.• Inlets connected to the trench should be designed to have sumps.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Inlets must be covered during construction to minimize sedimentation in the trench.

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MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Trash, grass clippings, and other debris should be removed from the trench perimeter and disposed of properly once a

year or as needed.• Trenches must be inspected regularly and debris removed, especially after large rain events.• Periodic repair and sediment removal is needed to facilitate exfiltration.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Construction costs range from $2.50 to $7.91 per cubic foot of treatment volume.• Annual maintenance is 3 to 20 percent of capital costs.

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Targeted Pollutants


Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-RS-3 - Retention Systems - Concrete Grid Pavers

DESCRIPTIONSurfaces such as concrete or synthetic grid pavers or blocks interspersed with areas ofgravel, sand, or grass serve to reduce runoff volumes and trap vehicle-generated pollutants.They provide a reinforced pervious surface for low traffic parking.

SELECTION CRITERIA• Recommended for high density development.• Deep permeable soils.• Restricted traffic, such as parking or emergency vehicle access only.• Small drainage area.

LIMITATIONS• Provides little treatment for high flows.• Not to be considered towards flood attenuation requirements.• Restrictions may apply to systems located above sole source (drinking water) aquifers. • Soil must have good infiltration rates (at least 0.5 inches per hour).

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Ground water table must be at least 2 feet below grade of pavement.• To be used only in low traffic or parking areas.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Gravel layer must be protected during construction to minimize sedimentation.

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Trash, grass clippings, and other debris should be removed from the surface of the area as

needed.• Pavers must be inspected regularly and debris removed, especially after large rain events.• Nutrient and pesticide management should be performed as needed.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Construction costs range from $0.50 to $2.00 per square foot.• Annual maintenance is 5 percent of initial construction costs.

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Targeted PollutantsSuspended SedimentsTotal PhosphorusTotal NitrogenHeavy MetalsOxygen Demanding SubstancesTrace Metals


Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-RS-4 - Retention Systems - Vegetated Filter Strips

DESCRIPTIONVegetated filter strips are strips of land with vegetated cover that are designed to reducesediment and remove pollutants.

SELECTION CRITERIA• Recommended for agriculture and low density development.• Pretreatment for other structural practices, such as dry detention ponds and exfiltration

trenches.• Small drainage area.

LIMITATIONS• Provide little treatment for concentrated flows.• Restrictions may apply to systems located above sole source (drinking water) aquifers. • Soil must have good infiltration rates (at least 0.5 inches per hour).

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Filter strip should be at least 20 feet long. Better performance can be achieved if the strip

is 50 to 100 feet long.• The grade slope should not exceed 5 percent.• A level spreader at least as wide as the contributing overland flow area that is graded

uniformly to avoid flow concentration is highly recommended.• Seasonal ground water table must be at least 2 to 4 feet lower than the bottom of the filter

strip.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Forested strips next to water bodies should be left undisturbed except for the removal of

trees that present unusual hazards and small debris that may be refloated by high water. • Top edge of the filter strip should be regraded and reseeded if strip has been used as a

sediment and erosion control measure during the construction phase.

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MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Mowing must be performed as needed, but should be limited to spring or fall to avoid impacts on ground nesting birds.• Aeration of filter strips is required.• Maintaining a healthy vegetation aids in removal efficiency and prevents erosion.• Sediment buildup must be removed annually to prevent a damming effect.• Nutrient and pesticide management should be performed as needed.• Periodic harvesting of some trees not directly adjacent to water bodies removes sequestered nutrients and maintains an

efficient filter through vigorous vegetation.• To minimize soil compaction, vehicular traffic and excessive pedestrian traffic should be avoided.• Periodic repair and sediment removal is needed to prevent channelization.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Costs are lower if existing vegetation is used.• Construction cost ranges from $0 to $1.3 per square foot.• Annual maintenance cost ranges from $100 to $1,400 per acre.

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Targeted PollutantsSuspended SedimentsTotal PhosphorusTotal NitrogenHeavy MetalsOxygen Demanding Substances


Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-RS-5 - Retention Systems - Grassed Swales

Adapted from Schueler, 1987

DESCRIPTIONGrassed swales are filtration and conveyance mechanisms that are generally used to providepretreatment before runoff is discharged to treatment systems.

SELECTION CRITERIA• Low density areas.• Small drainage area.

LIMITATIONS• Restrictions may apply to systems located above sole source (drinking water) aquifers.• Long-term effectiveness in most cases will depend on proper maintenance of the entire

system.• If flows pass through rapidly and limited soil infiltration occurs, minimal pollutant

removal can be expected.• Soil must have good infiltration rates (at least 0.5 inch per hour).

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Swales are typically shallow, vegetated, man-made trenches with a width-to-depth ratio

equal to or greater than 6 to 1, or side slopes equal to or greater than 3-feet horizontal to1-foot vertical.

• Check dams across the flow path will increase containment of first-flush contaminants.• If longitudinal slopes exceed 4 percent, check dams are needed.• Flow velocities must not exceed 1.5 to 3 feet per second.• Seasonal ground water table must be at least 2 to 4 feet lower than the bottom of the

swale.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Soil should not be compacted during construction. If it is, it should be tilled.• Swale must be stabilized with vegetation within one week after it has been graded.

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• The established width should be maintained to ensure the continued effectiveness and

capacity of the system. • Grassed swales should be mowed to stimulate vegetative growth, control weeds, and

maintain the capacity of the system (see Appendix B for guidelines).• Inspections, vegetation maintenance, mowing, and debris removal are required at least

annually.• Inspect check dams for erosion at least annually.• Sediment removal, reseeding, or resodding should be done at least every 5 years.

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• Nutrient and pesticide management should be performed as needed.• Residents that have swales must be educated on their maintenance requirements.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Construction cost ranges from $0.60 to $1.60 per square foot.• Annual maintenance cost ranges from 5 to 7 percent of capital costs.

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Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-DS-1 - Detention Systems - Dry Detention Ponds

DESCRIPTIONDry detention ponds are depressed green areas where urban runoff is temporarily stored,then gradually released through a control structure or by filtration into the ground

SELECTION CRITERIA• Moderately permeable soils.• Moderate to large amount of open area available.• Moderate to large drainage area.

LIMITATIONS• May not be appropriate where ground water requires protection.• Restrictions may apply to systems located above sole source (drinking water) aquifers.• Long-term effectiveness in most cases will depend on proper operation and maintenance

of the entire system.• Moderate longevity.

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Requires a moderate layer of permeable soil at separation distances of at least 1 foot

between the bottom of the structure and seasonal ground water levels.• Runoff should gradually drain down and/or infiltrate to maintain aerobic conditions

favoring bacteria that aid in pollutant removal and to ensure the basin storage capacity isavailable for subsequent storm events (check local regulations also).

• Concentrated runoff should flow through a sediment trap.• A vegetated filter strip may be used for sheetflow.• Side slopes of 1:4 are recommended if riding mower is to be used.• A bottom slope of 1 percent is recommended to maximize infiltration and avoid ponding.• To avoid resuspension of settled out solids, nonerosive velocities should be maintained

along the pond bottom during peak runoff events.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Design soil conditions must be confirmed during excavation.• Driving of heavy equipment over a detention basin must be avoided during and after

construction.• If a detention basin is used for sediment and erosion control during construction, the last

foot at the basin bottom should not be excavated to final grade until entire drainage areahas been stabilized.

• After final grading, deep till of infiltration area is recommended to maximize infiltration.• Stabilize with vegetation within three days after construction.• Basin bottom should be seeded, instead of sodded, to maximize infiltration.

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MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Facility must be inspected every 6 months or after a major storm event and any debris must be removed.• Control structure must be inspected and maintained semiannually, and repaired as needed.• Accumulated sediments must be removed at least once annually.• Rototilling or disking the basin bottom should be done annually.• Embankments and side slopes must be maintained.• Use fertilizers only if absolutely necessary.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Construction cost ranges from $0.50 to $1.00 per cubic foot.• Annual maintenance cost ranges from 1 to 5 percent of capital costs.

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Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-DS-2 - Detention Systems - Wet Detention Ponds

DESCRIPTIONWet detention basins are pond areas maintained at a control elevation where urban runoff istemporarily stored, then gradually released through a control structure.

SELECTION CRITERIA• Low to moderately permeable soils acceptable.• Moderate to large amount of open area available.• Moderate to large drainage area.

LIMITATIONS• May not be appropriate where ground water requires protection.• Restrictions may apply to systems located above sole source (drinking water) aquifers.• Long-term effectiveness in most cases will depend on proper operation and maintenance

of the entire system.• Moderate longevity.

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Concentrated runoff should flow through a sediment trap or dry detention/retention area

upstream of a wet detention pond.• A vegetated filter strip may be used for sheetflow.• Side slopes of 1:4 or less are recommended if riding mower is to be used.• To avoid resuspension of settled out solids, nonerosive velocities should be maintained

along the pond bottom during peak runoff events.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Design soil conditions must be confirmed during excavation.• Stabilize slopes with vegetation within three days after construction.

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Facility must be inspected every six months or after a major storm event and any debris

must be removed.• Control structure must be inspected and maintained semiannually, and repaired as needed.• Accumulated sediments must be removed every five years.• Embankments and side slopes must be maintained and repaired as needed.• Use fertilizers only if absolutely necessary.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Construction cost ranges from $0.50 to $1.00 per cubic foot.• Annual maintenance cost ranges from 3 to 5 percent of capital costs.

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Targeted PollutantsSuspended SedimentsTotal PhosphorusTotal NitrogenHeavy MetalsChemical Oxygen Demanding SubstancesTrace Metals


Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-DS-3 - Detention Systems - Constructed Wetlands

DESCRIPTIONConstructed wetlands and multiple pond systems treat runoff through adsorption, plantuptake, filtration, volatilization, precipitation, and microbial decomposition. They aredesigned to simulate the water quality improvement functions of natural wetlands to treatand contain surface water runoff pollutants and decrease loadings.

SELECTION CRITERIA• Moderate to large drainage area.• Shallow surface water table.• Optimal water depth is approximately 6 inches.• Poorly drained organic soils.

LIMITATIONS• Potential augmentation of water flows.• Seasonal variability of plant growth.• Potential breading grounds for insects and undesirable odors.• Maintenance is required for efficiency.• Potential increase of thermal discharge, oxygen demand, and net nutrient loading.

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• An area consisting of at least 2 to 3 percent of the total contributing watershed’s area will

be needed.• Multiple pond systems potentially provide much higher levels of treatment.

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• Vegetated buffers and deep water areas (approximately 25 percent) provide additional treatment, wildlife habitat, and aestheticenhancements.

• Maximized flow paths via buffers, stands, and peninsulas increase treatment area.• Bottom bleed down device facilitates dewatering for maintenance.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Retain or augment organic soils to improve performance.• Include a plant specialist for design, construction, and maintenance plans.• Schedule slope stability, construction, and landscaping to coincide with seasonal plant growth.• Inspect plant communities, sediment accumulations, and discharge structures annually.

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Slope control and removal of sediment in forebays.• Removal of trash, debris, and nuisance species.• Supplemental plantings.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Construction cost ranges from $0.05 to $1.00 per cubic foot.• Maintenance cost ranges from 1 to 5 percent of capital costs.

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Targeted PollutantsSuspended Sediments


Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-OS-1 - Other Systems - Water Quality Inlets

DESCRIPTIONWater quality inlets rely on settling to remove pollutants before discharging water to thestorm sewer or other collection system. They are also designed to trap floating trash anddebris. When inlets are coupled with oil/grit separators and/or hydrocarbon absorbents,hydrocarbon loadings from high traffic parking areas may be reduced.

SELECTION CRITERIA• Applicable to many sites, including high density areas with poorly drained soils and

extensive impermeable areas.• Small drainage area.• Flexibility to retrofit existing drainage areas with minimal or no additional land

requirement.

LIMITATIONS• Pollutant removal effectiveness is limited, and the devices should be used only when

coupled with extensive clean-out methods. • Not effective for water quality control during intensive storms.

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Retrofitting devices can be install in any shape or size of grate or cub inlet. Accurate

measurement of inlets must be taken to ensure proper fit.

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• Should not obstruct flow or cause excessive hydraulic head losses.• Need removable grates or manholes to install and clean devices.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Frequent periodic inspections and sediment removal are required (2 to 3 times per year).

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Proper disposal of trapped coarse-grained sediments and hydrocarbons is required.• Clean-out and disposal costs may be significant.• Maintenance requirements are high if clean out of sediment and debris is performed routinely.• Requires replacement of hydrocarbon absorbent at least once per year.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Construction cost ranges from $1,100 to $3,000 per new precast unit and from $600 to $900 per retrofitted unit.• Annual maintenance cost ranges from $7.50 to $90 per unit.• Hydrocarbon absorbent costs approximately $100.

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Targeted PollutantsSuspended Sediments


Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-OS-2 - Other Systems - Separation Devices

DESCRIPTIONSeparation devices include sumps, baffle boxes, oil/grit separators, and sediment basins tocapture trash, sediments, and floating debris.


extensive impermeable areas.• Small drainage area.• Flexibility to retrofit existing drainage areas with minimal or no additional land

requirement.

LIMITATIONS• Efficient only within specific ranges of volume and discharge rates.

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• A forebay can pretreat discharges by separating heavy grit and floating debris before it

enters the separator. • A manhole cover over each chamber is recommended for easy access and inspection.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Frequent periodic inspections and sediment removal are required (1 to 3 times per year).

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Period inspections and sediment removal are required• Proper disposal of trapped coarse-grained sediments is required. • Clean-out and disposal costs may be significant.

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• Maintenance requirements are high if clean out of sediment and debris is performed routinely.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• These devices may have a high initial investment cost.• Construction cost ranges from $2,300 to $40,000 per unit.• Annual maintenance cost is less than $1,000 per unit.

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Targeted PollutantsSuspended SedimentsTotal Phosphorus


Capital Costs

O&M Costs

Maintenance

Training

High Low

Structural BMP Fact SheetSFWMD-BMP-OS-3 - Other Systems - Chemical Treatment

DESCRIPTIONChemical processes include coagulation coupled with solids separation to remove pollutants.Iron, aluminum metal salts, and alum are used to coagulate compounds, then polymers areadded to enhance flocculation and induce settling. Chemical processes offer the advantageof low land requirements, flexibility, reliability, decreased detention time requirements, andthe ability to enhance water quality to levels substantially lower than could be achievedusing other methods alone.


extensive impermeable areas.• Moderate to large drainage area.

LIMITATIONS• High capital, operations, and maintenance costs.• Solid waste management requirements.

DESIGN AND SIZING CONSIDERATIONS• Needs relatively steady flow, flow equalization basin, or storage.• The accumulated floc is normally sent to a landfill, but some systems allow for automatic

floc disposal into the sanitary sewer or adjacent drying beds.

CONSTRUCTION/INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS• Availability of suitable site including discharge buffer zone.

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MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS• Maintenance is high if chemicals are continually input and spent precipitate is removed.• Accumulated alum floc must be pumped out of the sump area on a periodic basis.

COST CONSIDERATIONS• Average construction cost is $790 per acre treated.• Annual operation and maintenance cost is $100 per acre of drainage area served.• Cost of land required at installation location.

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Best Management Practices for South Florida Urban Stormwater ...

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